I asked you to offer some public admiration for the brother or sister of a child with special needs, and several heartwarming and pride-inducing entries have come in so far:
Triumphs in the Trials!: My 15 year old, Lexi, has pushed through the challenges of resentment and fear in being the sibling of 2 kids with special needs. Not only does she volunteer as a counselor at a local special needs day camp, but she also stands up to & educates any friends who would dare to throw the "R" word around. God is growing this child into a woman who will make a difference in the world regarding acceptance of those with unique abilities! -- Barb
Awesome Big Sister: My 15 yo makes sure her brother gets doses of the most popular book series-es. She patiently and often times insistently, gets him to sit with her and listen to the books. She looks out for him in many ways of the world and she loves him. -- Wendy
Siblings Have Broad Shoulders!: Vinny (11) & Dom Forte (9) have been so accommodating to their younger brother Tony (7), what more can they do! Tony was born with a debilitating intestinal disease. Since his birth there have been lengthy admissions that have left Vinny & Dom to the point of no sleepovers, no school (we now cyber school), no sports or planning ahead of family trips. Yet Vinny & Dom will smile and do what they have to to benefit Tony's quality of health that they have created a website for fundraising on behalf of Tony. -- Monica
Does your child with special needs have a sibling who could use some recognition? Share your messages of pride and admiration on the Readers Respond page. And for some ideas of other things they might like you to do for them, read "20 Things Siblings Would Like Parents and Service Providers to Know."
Photo by Terri Mauro