As a parent of two exceptional individuals, I remember many challenges that we faced over time. It started out with the diagnosis, the tears, the misunderstandings, the whys?

I remember all the hours of research, wondering, hoping, praying, not knowing who to talk to, where to go for help - all of the tears that we both experienced.

I remember the financial strain, the people who helped us and all of the hard work that we had to do and continue to do as a family to understand how to move forward effectively for the sake of our child.

I remember all of the teachers I had to communicate with, some good and helpful, and some who didn’t care.

I remember crawling into bed at night so mentally and emotionally exhausted that I didn’t know how I was going to make it another day.

I remember some people whispering, looking at my child making comments and how much it hurt me.

I remember some really tough behaviours that we had to deal with and work through.

I remember all of the amazing people that I met along this crazy journey and how they supported our family, helped us, educated us and were by our side day in and day out.

I remember the love, the kindness, the joy that we experienced when an achievement was made. It was so exciting!

Most of all, I always remember how much God loved us – our family. Even when I didn’t understand, I knew that God was there.

If you are a parent with an exceptional child, you know where I am coming from. There are so many things to face every day that it can be so overwhelming. You may wonder how you are going to make it through the day. You may want to give up. Whatever feelings you may experience are yours and need to be validated.

I want to tell you that God loves you and your family. He is there for you at your lowest low and your highest high. He will never leave you. I have learned over the years that God is the one constant and He has never let me down -ever.

I love the verse from Isaiah 54:10, “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” said the Lord who has compassion on you.”

When you are feeling as though perhaps you can’t go on, remember how much God loves you and cares for you. We at Amberlea Church also love you and care about you.

Here at Amberlea we will be opening our doors once again to our exceptional needs program in the coming weeks and would love to have you and your family join us on Sunday mornings!

Shelly Wedge

Exceptional Families Coordinator

Amberlea Church