Stigma. Not a pleasant word. Oxford Dictionary defines stigma as “a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality or person.” Synonyms include shame, disgrace, dishonor,… Read more “Stigma. Mental Health. And You.”
Category: Family Values
I Am Rudolph Too
We all know the 1939 song. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. All of the other reindeer used to laugh and call him names. They never let poor Rudolph… Read more “I Am Rudolph Too”
This Trauma Dad Turns 60: My Bucket List
Two years into my adoption journey, I turned 40. I had energy – no task seemed too vast. I had courage to face Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and… Read more “This Trauma Dad Turns 60: My Bucket List”
I’m Thankful Your Trauma Isn’t Mine
I’m Thankful Your Trauma Isn’t Mine No, I’m not being selfish. I’m simply being real. Early childhood trauma and its devastating effects truly suck. That’s right, they… Read more “I’m Thankful Your Trauma Isn’t Mine”
The Kitchen Stove: A Place for Family Connection
Don’t look too closely. Most everything in my home has not stood the test of time. That’s because children with early trauma or FASD have big emotions… Read more “The Kitchen Stove: A Place for Family Connection”
The Day My Son Michael Taught 500 Students about Respect
I can’t do it. After 50+ high school and college presentations with my sons Andrew and Michael – without incident, I immediately knew something was wrong. … Read more “The Day My Son Michael Taught 500 Students about Respect”
Patience. I Have None Left to Give.
One of those days. Nothing seems to be going right. One mishap on top of another. Emotionally and physically exhausted. The fuse grows shorter. Desperate for relief.… Read more “Patience. I Have None Left to Give.”
Seeing My “Trauma” Son through His “No Trauma” Daughter
Every day for 18 years. That’s how long I’ve witnessed my son Travis’s anxiety. Some days a little – not readily apparent to the untrained observer. His… Read more “Seeing My “Trauma” Son through His “No Trauma” Daughter”
Trauma in the Real World
Everyone loves a good story. Ones that are personal. Authentic. They open our hearts. They allow us to break down walls. And they can change our perspective… Read more “Trauma in the Real World”
From FASD & Early Trauma to the Boston Marathon
My son Andrew earned the right. Just like every qualifier for the 2019 Boston Marathon – on Patriot’s Day April 15th. But he’s different than the other… Read more “From FASD & Early Trauma to the Boston Marathon”