The SpecialMoms Parenting Magazine 2nd Issue | Page 32

Katrina Moody books together; he’s into zombies now, but loves most super heroes - and his helpful spirit will make you think he’s older than his years. Logan is my mischievous little guy - he’s discovering his words and in LOVE with most theme songs. His giggle will make your day and melt your heart, too. Share with us the diagnosis of your children with special needs. How did you find out? My guys have a lot of diagnoses, but the most important is awesomeness - because it’s the one I gave them and it describes them best: They are all awesome and unique. But that awesomeness = a LOT of different diagnoses around here. My husband and three sons all share the same rare genetic disorder, called Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome. Along with ARS they are all autistic as well. My guys have varying other diagnoses, some because of the ARS and others perhaps due to being preemies (Andy and Logan were 33 weekers) or maybe just because they needed to be that awesome. Each kid and their diagnoses: Bobby - ARS, Epilepsy, Autism, VI (Visual Impairment - he’s legally blind) Andy - ARS, Autism, Dyslexia, other LD Logan - ARS, Epilepsy, Autism, VI (also legally blind), Cerebral Palsy I know there are other diagnoses that have fallen by the wayside over the years and others I think are a bit of overkill - like ADHD. facebook What is the most rewarding thing about being the mother of a special needs child? You learn to appreciate the little things that are so easy to take for granted otherwise - a laugh, a smile, taking a step, saying “I Love You” … all things my guys have fought to be able to do. Briefly explain to us about your business and why you decided to it? I run my own online business, providing WordPress designs, customizations, maintenance and tweaking, along with graphic design. I started out by writing freelance and still love to write. I think it’s imperative for special needs parents, for caregivers, to have something they can be passionate about which is outside of being just a caregiver. I do still hope to form “The Rarelink” - an organization that specifically helps parents of kids with rare disorders make connections and find/give support to one another. It’s my dream - so … someday. 32 twitter