An exceptional memoir that provides emotional insight and practical advice. It's like planning a trip to Italy, only to get off the plane and discover you're actually in Holland. You need a new road map, and fast... When Jennifer Groneberg and her husband learned they'd be having twin boys, their main concern was whether they'd need an addition on their house. Then, five days after Avery and Bennett were born, Avery was diagnosed with Down syndrome. Here, Jennifer shares the story of what followed. She dealt with doctors-some who helped, and some who were disrespectful or even dangerous. She saw some relationships in her life grow stronger, while severing ties with people who proved unsupportive. And she continues to struggle to find balance in the hardships and joys of raising a child with special needs. This book is a resource, a companion for parents, and above all, a story of the love between a mother and her son-as she learns that Avery is exactly the child she never knew she wanted.

Jennifer Graf Groneberg lives in Northwest Montana with her husband and three children. She is an active member of the National Down Syndrome Society and the National Association of Down Syndrome. Author website: jennifergrafgroneberg.com.