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”
Category: Self-Advocacy
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”
Provider Fatigue – Yours and Mine
Today my son and I meet with a new mental health provider. I’m not holding my breath. I’m not expecting anything. We’ve both learned from past experience… Read more “Provider Fatigue – Yours and Mine”
What My Kids Need Oprah to Say about Trauma
On Sunday, March 11, “trauma” finally moved front and center during the highly-rated 60 Minutes. For over 13 minutes, Oprah Winfrey guided a thoughtful conversation about the… Read more “What My Kids Need Oprah to Say about Trauma”