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”
Category: Self-Advocacy
Fixing the Broken Children Welfare System
When I recently blogged about foster care, hundreds of comments erupted – with insightful and compelling thoughts. I compiled the best, sorted for universal themes, lightly edited… Read more “Fixing the Broken Children Welfare System”
When Schools Refuse to “Get” Trauma
For four years my young-adult daughter Ashley and I worked with a reporter from The Indianapolis Star. Our goal was simple – an accurate, in-depth story about… Read more “When Schools Refuse to “Get” Trauma”
To Further Understanding, A Brave Trauma Survivor Bears All
Rarely does the media thoroughly investigate childhood trauma – especially in relation to survivors. Too often the emphasis starts and stops with the perpetrator. Survivors are rarely… Read more “To Further Understanding, A Brave Trauma Survivor Bears All”
From Molestation Victim to Advocate: Silent No More
Too often stories of childhood sexual abuse remain untold – for years. Early in my adoption journey, I realized the importance of telling my family’s story. That… Read more “From Molestation Victim to Advocate: Silent No More”
My Child Struggles: How Much to Share?
With a new school year around the corner, most parents can’t wait for the return to structure and routine – from which kids benefit. But parents also… Read more “My Child Struggles: How Much to Share?”
Evolution of the Angry Teen
I expected a little teenage “attitude” during my adoption journey – but never the level of anger seen in five of my six children. Over-the-top. Aggressive. Anti-social.… Read more “Evolution of the Angry Teen”
Life: Perspective from My 40-Year High School Reunion
How time flies. And how we gain perspective. Forty years ago I graduated from Billings West High School – one of the largest senior classes in Montana… Read more “Life: Perspective from My 40-Year High School Reunion”
Testimonies of Hope – Family to Family
Never underestimate the impact that families can have one another. By being transparent. By describing real-life challenges. By identifying their children’s strengths. By sharing hard-fought successes without… Read more “Testimonies of Hope – Family to Family”
When the Media Gets the Story Right
The media can be our best friend when our stories are told with accuracy and compassion. Both WTIU in Bloomington, Indiana and WTHR in Indianapolis did just… Read more “When the Media Gets the Story Right”