Thoughts from a Medical Parent: Starting the New School Year

As Summer comes to an end, the back-to-school season brings a whirlwind of emotions and many tasks for every parent. But for those of us who are medical parents or have disabled children, it brings a reminder of the unique path we walk. This time of year, is particularly busy, filled with mixed emotions of excitement and anxiety.

Sending our children back to school involves more than buying school supplies and new outfits. It requires careful planning, communication, and resilience to make sure our children have the best possible experience academically while staying safe. The to do lists are endless, filled with tasks that are second nature by now but still heavy. There's kind of a routine to it, that ensures every detail is accounted for, every possible scenario is prepared for.

Despite the planning we do daily, there will always be that lingering anxiety.

What if something goes wrong?

What if the staff isn't equipped for an emergency?

What if the IEP isn't followed?

What if the staff doesn't communicate?

What if the school isn’t adequately accessible?

What if my child is bullied?

What if... What if... What if..

These thoughts are a part of our reality, they sit in the back of our minds, every single day. This anticipatory anxiety is our reality.

We carry this weight; we move forward with it because we have to.

There is a specific type of exhaustion that comes with this. There is also a deep sense of pride. Our children amaze us every day, they defy the odds, they're strong, they're fun, they're curious, they're... children!

This time of year, is full of emotions... strong, confusing, layered, complex emotions.

It's a reminder of everything we've been through and how far we've come. Every new school year is a new milestone for my child and for myself.

So, as the first day approaches, I find myself feeling a mix of emotions. The road ahead will have bumps but I know we will keep moving forward, one step... one victory at a time.