I have watched my son pound his hands against his own head while tears streamed down his face. I felt powerless.

I have told my son that everything is going to be okay as I wiped those tears away. I felt his pain.

I have prayed for my son to speak, to tell me what’s wrong, to share his feelings with me, to say anything. I felt betrayed.

I see my son smile as he reaches out to hug me. I feel hopeful.

I hear my son laugh as we play outside. I feel joy.

I realize the happiest moments of my life only happen when I am with my son. I feel love.

Caring for a person with disabilities can be a struggle at times. But loving that person requires no effort. Fighting for people with disabilities is an uphill battle. And to me, there is nothing more worthy to fight for.

I am writing this for all the mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, and loved ones of those with disabilities. I am saying this for people like my son Aidan, who cannot speak the words himself.

We are not powerless. We will keep fighting.

This new year brings hope, joy, and love. Make it your resolution to share those emotions, spreading them through your family, friends, and communities.

Happy New Year