The Inspiration Behind This Website

Raising two boys with Bipolar Disorder, I’ve been through it all, from the highs and lows of manic and depressive episodes to countless meetings and research sessions to understand and help them the best I can. I noticed something was off when they were just in Kindergarten, and since then, my life has been a whirlwind of advocacy and learning.

In the beginning, the excuses came flooding in. “They’re just being boys,” they said, or “They’re immature, they need more discipline, rewards, and consequences.” I even got the classic, “Tell them Santa won’t come if they don’t behave.” I’ve heard it all, and frankly, it was frustrating.

As time went on, the narrative shifted to “They’re manipulating you,” or “They’re too much for a regular classroom.” I was even told they wouldn’t qualify for an IEP because they could control their behavior if they wanted to. That was a hard pill to swallow. Sitting in those CSE meetings, hearing that my kids were “out of control,” I felt a mix of vindication and sorrow. Yes, we were finally getting help, but at what cost? They’d lost friends, they were being labeled, and it broke my heart.

But let me tell you, I am one fierce mama bear. I’ve gone to bat for my boys more times than I can count. I’ve made calming boxes filled with toys, fidget spinners, activity books – you name it. I’ve marched into the principal’s office, demanding they not send my son home early just because they presumed he’d be a problem later. Deep down, I knew the school wasn’t the issue; my boys just needed more.

After what felt like an eternity of school programs, therapists, counselors, and social skills groups, we finally found what worked for both of them. Doctors who believed in science, who saw my boys for who they are, not as “bad kids,” but as kids with a neurodevelopmental disorder. We did PGx testing, found the right medicines, and finally, finally, things started to look up.

Now, at 15 and 17, my boys are thriving in high school. They’re getting great grades, they’re stable, and they know their strengths and limitations. They’re insightful, strong, and have a level of empathy I’ve never seen in teenagers before. I couldn’t be prouder.

I know my story might not look like yours, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to never settle. Always search for new interventions, new ways to help your child develop and thrive. You never know what might make all the difference.

I created this website for parents like me, who need resources, who need to know they’re not alone, and that there’s hope, new technologies, and alternatives out there. The journey might be scary, but you don’t have to face it alone.