September 12, 2023
Unbreakable Bonds: Siblings and Extraordinary Connection
Someone once said to me…’siblings to children with disabilities are not special. And they shouldn’t be treated as such.’
I’ll tell you this…in all my years of sharing on social media, very few statements have bothered me as much as that one.
I adamantly disagree.
These two. Siblings. Brothers. Two years between them. Roles of older and younger often reversed.
Sawyer. Holding his brother’s life jacket when we go fast. He doesn’t need too. But he does.
Life is different for him. Not bad by any means. Just…different. And it’s ok to acknowledge that.
It’s wonderful if you ask me. Confusing at times. Even hopeful with moments of heartbreak.
This younger brother sees and hears and experiences things most people never will. And we choose to call that a blessing.
In fact, it goes both ways. They are a blessing to each other.
We work really hard to give Sawyer all the experiences kids should have. I often feel like his dad and I have our feet in two different worlds.
And at 10 he’s amazing. He’s kind and funny and wild and often too much. He’s the middle child. Sandwiched in between an older brother and two younger siblings.
He buckles seatbelts and hold hands. He shares snacks and hands mommy a diaper.
He plays sports nonstop and loves sleepovers.
He sits on brothers and helps with shoes and pushes swings. And he wrestles and throws a punch when he feels necessary. They are often returned.
He has his own room but shares with his brother by choice.
He asked big questions about growing up with a disability that have almost broken me. And amazed me with his empathy and kindness.
Someone looked at this photo a while back and said…maybe he’s not holding onto his older brother to keep HIM safe…instead, maybe he feels safe and protected himself by holding onto him.
Once she said that I saw the photo differently.
Safety in each other. Together. Holding on.
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook.
