Columns

February 19, 2021August 24, 2022

Taking Time to Acknowledge Our Efforts as Parents and Caregivers

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

As humans, and especially as caregivers, we do not give ourselves enough credit. It’s a widely accepted expectation that we should always strive to do better. I don’t necessarily disagree ... Read more

February 12, 2021February 10, 2021

Brian Is a Happy Little Man

Columns, Redefining Normal – a Column by Brian Solka

Little Brian is awesome. As I take this time to reflect on the totality of the life that currently exists for me, I struggle to maintain a positive outlook. Lennox-Gastaut ... Read more

February 5, 2021February 3, 2021

I’m Ready to Embrace My Emotions as an LGS Caregiver

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

No matter how cliché it sounds, if there’s anything I can get across as a Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) caregiver, it’s that the experience is truly an emotional roller coaster. At ... Read more

January 28, 2021January 26, 2021

This Is Why I Had to Sign Off

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

It’s good to be back and writing again. My last column was posted over a month ago, before the winter holidays. I wish I could say the entirety of my ... Read more

January 15, 2021January 13, 2021

Forging New Routines After Sudden Changes

Columns, Redefining Normal – a Column by Brian Solka

As we packed into the car, our daughter, Coralynn, was excited. The holidays were firmly behind us, and today was the first day of the local recreation center’s basketball season. ... Read more

December 18, 2020December 16, 2020

Brian’s Letter to Santa

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

“What should I get Brian for Christmas?” It’s a question I get every year, but as the years have passed, it’s become increasingly difficult to answer. I used to be ... Read more

December 11, 2020December 9, 2020

How to Decide the Next Step?

Columns, Redefining Normal – a Column by Brian Solka

As I approach the reception desk, my heart is beating quickly. My forehead muscles are tense from the prolonged furrowing of eyebrows. People are crazy drivers, and any safe arrival ... Read more

December 4, 2020December 3, 2020

Giving Thanks During Difficult Times

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

Thanksgiving just passed, and I’m back to work after a peaceful week off. On Sunday, I experienced a real case of the pre-workweek blues, and I can’t seem to pick ... Read more

November 13, 2020November 12, 2020

Brian Turns 6!

Columns, Redefining Normal – a Column by Brian Solka

Brian’s birthday party is on Sunday, and he turns 6 years old! I can’t believe how quickly the time has passed. I remember holding my son shortly after he was ... Read more

November 6, 2020November 4, 2020

The Risks LGS Caregivers Take

Columns, Into the Unknown – a Column by Jendi Solka

In the spirit of Halloween and the constant uncertainties in our life, I had to revisit the first risk I took for my boy, Brian. I was in the final ... Read more