When Mom Is Tired, Caregiving Is Hard
I saw a meme today that said, “I need a day between every day to recover from the day before and prepare for the upcoming day.” I could not have identified with anything more…
Party of 9 — Betty Vertin
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.
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How my teaching job reminds me that I’m more than a caregiver
I’m more than a caregiver, but it took a recent life change for me to realize that. I’m a mom to seven children I share with my husband, Jason, including three of our…
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What I’ve Learned About Anxiety and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Our family has encountered many challenges in our journey with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and there will be more to come. If I were to ask the question, “What is the hardest part of Duchenne?”…
Parenting in a Duchenne Family Is Hard, But What About the Siblings?
It’s tempting to label the siblings of those who have Duchenne muscular dystrophy as the “unaffected siblings.” But I can never seem to get those words out of my mouth. Siblings are indeed affected…
My Son Is Living a Fuller Life Than We Ever Imagined
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…
6 Ideas for Back-to-School Success
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,…
This Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Family Lives Life to Its Fullest
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…
