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Julie Osborne's avatar

Thanks for this heartfelt post. My family has been deeply affected by mental health issues. I wish we would have had the opportunity for family counseling to heal our family. It is absolutely amazing how you have handled this health crisis with your children and how they are learning important life skills at an early age and are understanding the importance of seeking therapy and medication, when needed. I'm praying now for you and your beloved family.

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Serena Menken's avatar

Thanks so much, @Julie Osborne! Sending love and prayers to your family as well.

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Lisa Tea's avatar

Beautifully written. 💕 Having a sibling is our first opportunity to learn about ourselves & others and to learn to compromise. I'm so glad to hear your two kids are building compassion, resilience and understanding for their sister. 🤲

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Serena Menken's avatar

Thanks @Lisa Tea! That’s such a great perspective - that having a sibling is our first opportunity to learn about ourselves and others!

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Katherine Kowalski's avatar

I recognise so much of what you write about here in my own family. Our experiences are slightly different - my youngest has physical and learning disabilities, and my eldest has mental health difficulties - she has learned so much from having a disabled sibling, and we have learned so much from both of our children. We're a tight unit, no conversation is off the table, we care deeply for each other, and most importantly, laugh together every single day.

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Serena Menken's avatar

Thanks for sharing this @Katherine Kowalski. I love how your family is so united and caring for each other. And how you bring in laughter in the midst of the challenges. How old are your two kids?

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Katherine Kowalski's avatar

They are teens now, large and in charge!

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Serena Menken's avatar

hahaha! Glad you are all still tight, even as they emerge into adulthood!

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