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”
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”
No Longer Innocent
My guest blogger is my youngest son Brandon – now 24. He openly and honestly shares his coming of age story. Complete with the ups and downs… Read more “No Longer Innocent”
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”
Resiliency – and Its Effect on Healing
All children are resilient. I wish. Unfortunately, many are not. In fact, the “resiliency narrative” is all-too-common. Misplaced. Each of my six adopted children (now young adults)… Read more “Resiliency – and Its Effect on Healing”
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”
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”
Social Bonds: The Connection to Healing from Trauma
After 20+ years in the trauma trenches, I’m still searching for answers. Not just more info – but evidence-based research. Good stuff that allows me to be… Read more “Social Bonds: The Connection to Healing from Trauma”