When I started to think about what I was going to write, my first thought was to talk about Burt Blatt and his book Christmas in Purgatory. If there is anything that reminds us of the past history of what care looked like for people with developmental disabilities, it is his books. If you have not heard of him or read his books, they are a must read for any parent. They are a reminder of what was.

        “We stand on the strong shoulders of those before us.” I had never heard that statement until I entered the disability world. It has been used in other circles, but it certainly makes sense for us, doesn’t it? We can only build on the successes of the past accomplished by those before us.

        We all know parents who have paved the way for us and for our children.  Many had few choices and all made sacrifices to make life better for people with developmental disabilities and for the parents of people with disabilities. Their perseverance included the educational services we consider an entitlement.

        Their determination included striving for a place to live other than in an understaffed ward in an institution and activities to fill a person’s day so they do not sit idle. Things we consider an expectation.

        We cannot forget the parents before us. Join me in thanking them for their strong shoulders and for their endless hours of advocacy. When you meet a parent who has come before you, thank them for their work. We would not be here now if it wasn’t for them.

        Parents before me knew that there had to be a better way. They believed in human dignity and that all people have abilities to build on. I believe this too and am grateful that my son has had the educational and social opportunities he has had.

        My next hope is that he will actually have a choice in employment. My next hope is that John will have a best friend, just like my other sons have. My hope is that someday everyone will believe that people with developmental disabilities should also have fun and joy in their lives.

        We have come so far and yet we still have so far to go.

        As our newer and younger parents come forward and become the parents others turn to, we welcome them and also thank them. We offer our shoulders to those who follow us.

        Always remember that whenever a vision of possibility for people with disabilities has been expanded, at least one parent was involved with a broader, greater vision long before professionals were. We can never stop dreaming of making life better.

        Our dream at Parent to Parent is that no parent will be alone; we cannot stop being there for parents who are facing new challenges.  As challenging as things sometimes are, remember to show gratitude, practice forgiveness and welcome the newcomer. Thank you.