Betty Vertin is a mother and writer living in rural Hastings, Nebraska, with her husband and seven children. Betty is a caregiver to three sons, Max, Rowen, and Charlie. Her oldest was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in 2010 at 4 years old. The other boys were diagnosed with the same in the following year. Although Duchenne occasionally crashes the party, it has not kept her large family from celebrating and enjoying life. She writes her column in hopes of sharing her family’s experiences with others on a similar journey.
Life feels busy, which is no surprise to me. My husband, Jason, and I share seven children: Lexi, 23; Max, 19; Chance, 17; Rowen, 15; Charlie, 13; Mary, 10; and Callie, 2. Max, Rowen, and Charlie live with…
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My oldest son with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Max, starts his sophomore year in high school this week. He will be halfway through his high school education by the end of the school year. For a long time, I was…
My kids return to school next week. As always, there is so much to do to get ready. In addition to back-to-school shopping and open house, I have to ensure Max, Rowen, and Charlie, my sons with Duchenne muscular…
A hostess I am not! Planning a child’s birthday party or hosting a team meal is the extent of my party planning skills. I am usually introverted and quiet, and only a few people will hear me talk much.
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