John and Lisa talk about what it was like for them growing up with Andy. For the most part, they seem to have “typical” sibling relationships. How did you react to the memories they shared? “Andrew was aware of his…
Blog Archives
Q27: Loving Andrew – Chapter 25
This is an extremely difficult chapter to read. We’ve come to know Andrew through his mother’s written words and the story of his final hours is sure to bring tears to our hearts and eyes. What was your reaction to…
Q26: Loving Andrew – Chapter 24
This chapter covers Andrew’s move into a nursing home. The Lambs, the group home/farm community where he lived for decades, seemed to be a good placement for Andrew. How do you feel about these types of communities? When he could…
Posted in Loving Andrew Tagged with: disability services, elder care, group homes, housing, nursing home
Q25: Loving Andrew – Chapter 23
Wyllie goes into detail about the different doctors, diagnoses, and medications prescribed in an attempt to understand what was going on with Andrew’s mental health. Have you ever had trouble getting appropriate medical care for your son/daughter? Andrew’s long-time girlfriend…
Q24: Loving Andrew – Chapter 22
When Andrew’s mental health starts to falter, his mother tries to think of reasons why he could be worried or frustrated. She writes about how the family had always encouraged Andrew to “lead as normal a life as possible.” Do…
Q23: Loving Andrew – Chapter 21
Wyllie’s discussion about how Andrew didn’t have friendships in school is difficult to read. Is her description familiar? Did your child attend his/her prom? The subject of reproductive health and the rights of people who have Down syndrome presents difficult…
Q22: Loving Andrew – Chapter 20
Andrew’s co-workers describe him as having moods when he is “obnoxious.” “If he doesn’t want to listen, he won’t listen. The only one he’ll listen to is Pete because Pete’s his supervisor right now. Andrew is like my six-year-old kid;…
Q21: Loving Andrew – Chapter 19
“Watching children leave the nest is difficult for any parent, but letting go of a child with a developmental disability is an especially traumatic experience because we feel so responsible for their well-being.” P. 213 Do you agree with this…
Q20: Loving Andrew – Chapter 18
Andy’s college classes required that he navigate the city’s public transportation. Has your son/daughter surprised you by accomplishing something you never expected? How do you handle your anxiety about letting him/her try new things- especially if they could be dangerous?…
Q19: Loving Andrew – Chapter 17
Andy attended summer camp for four weeks. Has your child spent that much time away from home? How did you feel reading about the hanging “game?” What would you do if you found yourself in a similar situation? Andy continued…
