What really caught my attention, however, was that none of these families are able to access essential respite support for their child. In every case, Local Authorities have essentially left the families to cope on their own with no opportunities for a much needed chance to recharge their batteries.
We drove on… my worries remained… What would happen? Had God heard my prayer? Would he answer in the way that I hoped? Home got nearer, my anxiety increased. As we were pulling onto the drive the rain was getting stronger. We quickly unloaded the car, and then it was finally time to get James out of the car… I prayed again!
So many people said how valuable the evening had been. To gather with other parents, carers, and guardians, who are on a similar journey to themselves; to not feel so isolated and alone; to forge connections and friendships; all was hugely helpful.
If Isaac, one of the most well-known characters of the Old Testament, and ancestor of Jesus, had additional needs or disabilities, what does that say to us today?
I hope that our segment highlighted the challenges, but also the joys, of our story, and echoed the stories of families like ours across the country.
If we can’t do the best we can for the weakest in our society, then that is a damning inditement on us all. The incoming Government must address the SEND crisis immediately, and we must all hold them to account to make sure that they do.
The Dad's that come along are from all over the UK and even further afield in some cases, but each one finds a place where they are understood, seen, listened to, and are no longer alone...
...In desperation, they reached out to their church and asked if there was anything that the church could do to help… and their church stepped up magnificently. Here are just some of the things the church did...
Try thinking about three things to give thanks for today. Write them down. Do it again tomorrow. You will soon get into the habit of identifying those blessings. And on the tough days, when everything seems to have gone wrong, look back through the blessings you've written down on the good days and be encouraged by them.
If you journey with a nocturnal child (of any age) who is up in the night on a regular basis, I know how hard that journey is, I understand and empathise with you. It may help you to know next time you are up in the early hours that you are not alone, I may well be up with James too.
Delightful Handmade Dog Products and Gifts
An additional needs Dad and Son baking adventure...
Special Education Teaching Resources, Sensory Stories and SEND Information
The Additional Needs Blogfather 