Families of people with Disabilities

There is so much we can all learn about people with intellectual and developmental disabilities – and learn about their families. 

I learn something new every day.

Beyond the joy of working with our residents, I’ve also come to know some of their parents, guardians and family members.  Here are three things I’ve learned about them:

1. First and foremost, these parents want the same things for their children that all of us do – nothing more and nothing less.  And yet, they know that some things will never happen and few things come easy -- so they need to continuously advocate of behalf of their child.  They are grateful when others advocate with them.

2. The system of care is complicated and time consuming.  It’s exhausting.

3. Every day, in addition to dealing with the challenge of caring for their loved one, they think about “what happens to this person when I’m gone”.  Angels’ Place is one answer to that question, but unfortunately, we can’t be the answer for everyone. 

There is so much to learn – and we are all learning every day.

We hope you will take some time to learn more about the people with disabilities – and about their families.


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