I’m Not ‘Brave’ for Parenting My Disabled Kids
I parent two disabled kids, and I have been told multiple times I’m “so brave.” (Insert eye roll.) Maybe I should start asking people exactly what they mean by that phrase. I wonder if they realize how problematic and ableist that comment is. Do they think I am...
5 Things I Can Do to Become a Better Parent to My Disabled Kids
Parenting is a big job. I have yet to meet a parent who thinks this parenting gig is easy, and when your child has a disability, the job can feel overwhelming at times. While most parents are focused on helping their kids become responsible and independent, we...
Why We Need Better Working Options for Parents of Kids With Disabilities
I thought by the time I was 40 years old I would be established, having a successful career. Now, I am not sure I will ever get to have a “traditional” career. I parent two kids with disabilities, and more than anything, this has determined what my job is. When my...
The Isolation We Feel as Parents of Kids With Disabilities
There is a memory I have of playing with my daughter with Down syndrome at the park. She was around 21 months old, and she wasn’t walking yet. I held her hands so she could “walk.” I helped her climb on the play structures and carried her when necessary, often dashing...
When Your Child With a Disability Isn’t a ‘Superstar’
When my daughter was born with Down syndrome, I determined she would be a “superstar.” I was going to do whatever I needed to do so she would rise above all expectations. She was going to challenge every stereotype out there about individuals with Down syndrome. ...
Ellen Stumbo writes and speaks about finding beauty in brokenness with gritty honesty and openness. She's passionate about sharing the real – sometimes beautiful and sometimes ugly – aspects of faith, parenting, special needs, and adoption. Ellen’s writing has appeared on Focus on the Family, LifeWay, MomSense, Not Alone, Mamapedia and the Huffington Post.