Add Row
Add Element
UPDATE
April 15.2025
2 Minutes Read

How My Disability Shaped My Unique Parenting Approach

Young girl stretching in park, woman in wheelchair holding baby, bright day.

Embracing the Unexpected: How Disability Shaped My Parenting Journey

When I became a foster mom six years into living with a disability, I never anticipated how profoundly my situation would influence my approach to parenting. My name is Jessica Slice, and my journey through the challenges of dysautonomia and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, empathy, and the true meaning of nurturing.

The Weight of Consent: Seeking Approval Amidst Uncertainty

Before I could officially foster children, I faced a daunting requirement: my doctor had to attest to my capabilities as a parent. As I sat in his office, the friction between my disability and my ambitions felt almost unbearable. I often find myself grappling with the internal struggle of how I present to others and, at that moment, the fear of being perceived as incapable loomed large. Yet, I pressed on, motivated by a hope that was born from the same experience that sought to limit me.

Lessons from Disability: Gaining Skills that Nurture

Becoming disabled shifted my priorities and perspective. Before my injury, success was synonymous with relentless drive—traits that ultimately led to my body breaking down. However, navigating the intricacies of living with a disability demanded a new skillset: immense patience, acute listening, and the ability to adapt. These qualities are essential in parenting, fostering an environment for children that encourages understanding and growth.

A Powerful Community: Finding Support in Vulnerability

As I embraced my new identity within the disability community, I discovered allies and mentors who also had gone through similar hurdles. This emergence from isolation to connection highlighted the significance of community and belonging. For any parent, cultivating a supportive network is invaluable, reinforcing the idea that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength.

Looking Ahead: What My Parenting Journey Teaches Us All

As I continue my parenting journey, I recognize that my disability has not merely framed my perspective on motherhood; it has enriched it. The vulnerability I experience amplifies my compassion, allowing more profound connections with the children I foster. In sharing my story and experiences, I hope to inspire others to embrace their challenges and find strength in what makes them unique.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or considering fostering, remember that every journey is distinct. Embrace the unexpected—allow your challenges to guide you to greater understanding and resilience.

Lifestyle

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
07.20.2025

The Beauty of Solo Time: A Weekend of Reflection and Joy

Update Embracing Solo Time: The Art of Valuing Personal Space This weekend, as many families create special memories, I find myself reflecting on solo time's hidden treasures. Following a busy week, the boys have embarked on an adventure with their dad, leaving me with an opportunity for self-reflection and quality time with friends. This situation resonates with many, especially those navigating the intricacies of co-parenting. A recent study emphasized the importance of personal time in maintaining mental health. It’s paramount to prioritize moments alone, cultivating our feelings of independence and self-discovery. Creative Outlets and Connection As I plan my weekend, I’m excited to explore various activities that encourage creativity and connection. I’m contemplating trying my hand at baking focaccia with zucchini and potatoes, a delightful recipe shared recently. Cooking not only satisfies our taste buds but also serves as an emotional outlet, allowing us to share love through food. Whether cooking, reading a novel, or engaging in favorite hobbies, these activities nurture our hearts and offer a well-deserved break from daily routines. Celebrating Little Joys and Finds Amidst the weekend hustle, I encourage everyone to relish the little joys life presents. With links to a quiz that tests our Vogue potential from the '90s or stunning photos of kids jumping their bikes from yesteryears, these small pleasures can ignite nostalgia and laughter. Moreover, as I reminisce about my youthful days listening to Billy Joel, I find that music can heal and uplift our spirits. Celebrating Connection Through Comments Finally, the weekend wouldn’t be complete without engaging with the vibrant community through shared experiences. Reader comments about navigating the challenges of life, such as finding humor in mundane situations, remind us of our collective journey. One shared a unique fact about counting to a million, which is both amusing and enlightening, illustrating how community and connection are vital for our emotional wellbeing during periods of solitude. Looking Ahead: Creating a Balance Whether you are spending the weekend solo, with family, or pursuing personal interests, it’s essential to find a balance that nurtures mental health, creativity, and connection. As we embrace the weekend, let's remember to cherish these moments, savor the silence, and appreciate the warmth that our relationships bring.

07.19.2025

Explore Finding Joy in Everyday Moments with Ruth Chan's Comics

Update Finding Joy in Everyday Moments Ruth Chan, a talented illustrator from Brooklyn, captures the essence of daily life through her poignant comics. Her latest work, "Different Days," brings to light the nuances of human experience, expertly weaving together the mundane and the extraordinary. Chan’s art resonates with many, showcasing how our perspectives can shift, and how each day holds the potential for discovery. Emotional Connection with Real Life What makes Chan’s illustrations remarkable is their ability to connect deeply with emotions. Readers find themselves reflected in her observations—whether it’s the warmth of a family moment or the deep breaths taken during quiet solitude. Chan illustrates that it’s often in the small, often overlooked moments that we find the most profound truths about ourselves. A Comic to Inspire Reflection "Different Days" encourages us not only to appreciate our own routines but to challenge ourselves to see beyond them. It highlights the importance of seeking joy in ordinary tasks, inviting the audience to pause and reflect on their own lives. This relatability draws in audiences of all ages, making Chan’s work meaningful across generations. Why Comics Matter Comics, as an art form, are powerful communicators. They blend images and text to convey complex emotions succinctly. Chan’s work exemplifies this, as she translates intricate feelings into visually engaging narratives. By doing so, she fosters community dialogue and connection, suggesting that sharing experiences through art is an essential part of our collective well-being. Conclusion: Dive into the Joy of Life As we navigate the ups and downs of our own "different days," Ruth Chan’s comics serve as a gentle reminder to embrace the everyday. They illuminate the lessons hidden in our daily routines and encourage us to cherish the beauty of life’s simple pleasures. For those looking for an uplifting read, explore Chan’s work and let her illustrations guide you to find moments of joy in your day-to-day life.

07.19.2025

Find Your Perfect Summer Reads: Engaging Books for 2025

Update Summer Reading: Your Guide to Engaging New Stories As the summer sun sets down upon us, the joy of reading on the beach or by the porch takes center stage. The year 2025 has brought us a plethora of compelling books, catering to a spectrum of tastes. To help navigate the selections available, here are four standout reads that will make your summer reading list shine. It’s A Love Story by Annabel Monaghan This delightful tale centers around Jane Jackson, a former child star, whose quest for redemption unfolds through a romantic script. It’s like sipping lemonade on a hot day – refreshing and juicy. Monaghan’s ability to create relatable characters makes this one a must-have in your beach bag. King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby: A Gripping Tale For those who prefer something more thrilling, King of Ashes delivers a gritty story echoing the complexities of family ties and danger in Southern Virginia. With layers of intricate characters and heart-pounding plots, it’s not your typical sunny read but offers a riveting narrative that keeps you hooked. Atmosphere: Exploring Space with Taylor Jenkins Reid Taylor Jenkins Reid takes us on a cosmic journey in Atmosphere, set against the backdrop of NASA’s early days of female astronauts. The intertwining themes of adventure, romance, and rivalry capture the essence of exploration, providing history fans and sci-fi lovers with a fascinating escape. Exploring Identity in The Names by Florence Knapp Wondering how our names shape who we are? Knapp’s novel presents a thought-provoking narrative through the lens of a mother contemplating the names she might give her son. With three storylines diverging from one choice, it offers a heartfelt exploration of identity and legacy. Expand Your Literary Horizons! This summer, step outside of your typical literary preferences and dive into these engaging stories. They not only entertain but also provoke thought about love, identity, and the significance of our choices. So grab a book, whether by the seaside or in your backyard, and let your imagination soar!

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*