Columns

I Know You, Struggling Parent

When Cammy was 14 months old, she and her cousin Olivia took a weekly toddler music class called Wiggleworms. I dreaded trying my best each week to put a smile on my face and pretend to have fun. I was puppet master to my 14-month-old, acting as her…

The COVID-19 Vaccine Gave Our Family a Dose of Hope

My family is overwhelmingly grateful for the COVID-19 vaccination. We can breathe a little more easily now that our daughter Cammy is protected. We are infinitely thankful for the dedication of the people in the scientific and medical fields. The COVID-19 pandemic has been extremely difficult on all…

I Cycle Through the Stages of Grief Due to My Daughter’s Rett Syndrome

I used to think the stages of grief — denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance — only…

How We Responded During the Dark Days of Our Daughter’s Diagnosis

I was 31 years old and eight months pregnant when our daughter Cammy, not yet 2, was diagnosed with Rett syndrome. Cammy’s grandparents picked her up for a sleepover, and that night, my husband, Billy,…

Reflecting on How I Got Here: Welcome to ‘The IncRETTibles’

If you have a child that is diagnosed with a rare disorder, you’ll likely find yourself asking questions like, “How did I get here?” I’ve heard people say that “God only gives you what you can handle.” Well, apparently, God thinks I’m a badass, because…