Last week, we reached an important milestone with our child’s IEP team.  A goal that, truthfully, I never imagined I’d be working toward. Have you ever found yourself in that place? That moment when you realize you’re advocating for something you once swore you never would.

Years ago, I would have said, “No way. Not that. Not ever.” I had a vision in my head, boundaries I wouldn’t cross, services I didn’t think we’d need. But time passes. Life shifts. Your child grows, changes, and so do their needs. And suddenly, you’re standing in a room, speaking up for support, a service, even a disability category that your younger self couldn’t have imagined accepting.

Since we made that proposal, I’ve ridden a wave of emotions: sadness, anger, relief, hope, and everything in between. It’s been a lot. But as I reflect, I keep coming back to two simple truths:
Never say never, and one person’s journey is just that—their own unique journey.

I have no idea what the future holds for my child. I don’t know yet whether this decision, this shift in advocacy, will bring about the positive change we’re hoping for. But what I do know is this: as my child grows and their needs evolve, my role as their advocate must evolve, too.

This journey isn’t easy. But every storm eventually runs out of rain….and we keep moving forward, one step at a time.

Thanks for being here!
– Carolyn
Always an FTC Warrior