Chronic Kids, Constant Hope: Help and Encouragement for Parents of Children with Chronic Conditions

by Elizabeth M. Hoekstra, Mary Bradford

"As the grandmother of a child born with spina bifida, I especially appreciated the authors' honest and, at times, heartbreaking stories about God's calling for their lives. That they have discovered joy, found patience, and received grace at unexpected moments while parenting their chronic kids provides valuable support for our own journeys." ~Debra Evans, family wellness expert and author "Finally, a rare combination of practical information interwoven with the agonizing spiritual questions we're afraid to ask aloud! The authors have reached into their own souls and come out with a unique perspective that transforms what could be constant suffering into continual joy." ~Dandi Mackall, author, speaker, and mother of a "chronic kid" With the heart and understanding of moms who are living it themselves, Elizabeth Hoekstra and Mary Bradford offer encouragement and help for fellow parents of "chronic kids." If you were blessed with such a child, you are not alone. An estimated one-third of U.S. families have children with conditions ranging from asthma to cystic fibrosis—conditions that may not be imminently life-threatening, but are nevertheless life-altering for the entire family. Hoekstra and Bradford address specific issues such as dealing with emotions, what to do when friends say insensitive things, praying effectively, finding good medical care, and navigating the insurance maze. Through their honesty, the experiences of other parents, and your own chronic kid, you will discover how to recognize and absorb God's grace and hope as you live out His plan for your lives.

208 pages, Paperback

First published July 25, 2000

Reviews

[Matthew Linden]

This book is written by two Christian women with special needs children.

If you are looking for a book that has cheering you up and encouraging your faith as its goal, this may be a worthy read.

For whatever reason, it doesn't really resonate with me. I am in a place in my life where I would rather just read someone's story told straight - warts and all - rather than a "cheer me up book".

The book seems great - just not for me.

[B Detes]

LOVED the perspective these two sisters whose kids each had different diagnoses had to bring to bear!

[Heather Walker]

The #1 book I recommend to special-needs parents. So encouraging! I keep extra copies on my shelf to give away.