Thanks for writing this, Abby! As a mother with a troubled teen, I had a similar feeling of uncertainty and marvel at all the ways I clung to answers, avoided truths, and blamed myself for my child’s suffering. My process toward healing was long and arduous but I had to go through it to get to the other side. Thank you, and Karen, for sharing your stories so that others will not feel so alone.
Karen's book and yours are so important and will help parents with children under medical care find that needed balance. When my daughter was hospitalized after a terrible accident, I didn't speak up until it was almost too late. By the time she was transferred to a hospital with a higher level of care, I'd become so abrasive I alienated many of the staff. A friend who worked there told me nurses were afraid to come in the room. Not ideal.
I love where your compare and contrast process led you, Abbey. Although our instincts were different--something is wrong! something is not wrong!--rationalization was indeed our common denominator. I so appreciate being able to have this deep conversation with you!
Abby, Thank you for sharing your story. I have a similar story to you and Karen. I have been writing it in my head for years. I have recently unearthed the pile of paperwork from various doctors and specialists, as well as the lists of ineffective medications (and their side effects) my son was prescribed before my husband and I sought out our own answers. I have the facts, but what I am finally ready to explore are the feelings about my decisions and the outcomes. Relieved to say that my son is now 25 years and healthy!
Thanks for writing this, Abby! As a mother with a troubled teen, I had a similar feeling of uncertainty and marvel at all the ways I clung to answers, avoided truths, and blamed myself for my child’s suffering. My process toward healing was long and arduous but I had to go through it to get to the other side. Thank you, and Karen, for sharing your stories so that others will not feel so alone.
“It’s when the lights turn on that things slowly start to get better.”
“It’s not about aiming for perfection, but acting with intention.”
I’ll be mulling these gems all day. Thank you!
“It’s not about aiming for perfection, but acting with intention.” Brava!
Your and Karen’s stories are heartbreaking, and I can’t wait to read both—you’re the real shero’s.
Karen's book and yours are so important and will help parents with children under medical care find that needed balance. When my daughter was hospitalized after a terrible accident, I didn't speak up until it was almost too late. By the time she was transferred to a hospital with a higher level of care, I'd become so abrasive I alienated many of the staff. A friend who worked there told me nurses were afraid to come in the room. Not ideal.
I love where your compare and contrast process led you, Abbey. Although our instincts were different--something is wrong! something is not wrong!--rationalization was indeed our common denominator. I so appreciate being able to have this deep conversation with you!
Abby, Thank you for sharing your story. I have a similar story to you and Karen. I have been writing it in my head for years. I have recently unearthed the pile of paperwork from various doctors and specialists, as well as the lists of ineffective medications (and their side effects) my son was prescribed before my husband and I sought out our own answers. I have the facts, but what I am finally ready to explore are the feelings about my decisions and the outcomes. Relieved to say that my son is now 25 years and healthy!