33 Comments

So much love to you and your family Lyle. I do think we underestimate our capacity to adjust to whatever our "normal" is, no matter how incredible or devastating that normal would have seemed to us before. (And I always get nervous holding babies, too!)

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I was going to say something similar, Alicia! And maybe it’s a special kind of normal. A normal that’s much harder. But Lyle, you’re doing a damn good job at normalizing something that feels anything but. Thank you for continuing to share these wide open little windows into your family’s world!

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Thanks, E.L.!

You’re hitting on something that’s in one of my unfinished drafts. The gist is that you’re more resilient than you realize. We all have the ability to adapt to our reality, even when it might’ve seemed impossible to a younger version of ourselves.

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Yes exactly! And there really is an honor to rising to the occasion!

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You’re so right. Thank you, Alicia!

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Beautifully written, as always Lyle. I love when Em gets to join our Wayfinder meetings!

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❤️

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Thank you for this, Lyle. I consider what you’re doing with these essays to be vitally important work in demystifying this experience and giving people a window into this often unremarked upon reality. Really, excellent stuff as always.

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Thank you so much, Thomas!

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So glad I signed up for your newsletter; I love how comfortable you are in opening your life and heart to your readers. I have no kids of my own but became my mom’s mom 10 years ago when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Two different disabilities— same purpose, focus, love and compassion.

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Thank you for sharing, Amie. My wife’s grandmother had Alzheimer’s before she passed away a few years ago. It such a tough disease. Hang in there.

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Thank you, thank you, thank you for this beautiful work you are doing both for Em and everybody following your story.

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Thank you for reading ❤️

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Keep the faith, Lyle. Our 25-year-old son with CP still cannot sit up on his own. Still, he lives in his own apartment and is supported by a wonderful team of caregivers and lots of friends. He has a full life with lots of interests, and he's very proud to NOT live with his parents. :) We never know what the future holds. That's why it's important to live in the moment. Thanks for writing.

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Thank you for sharing your story (and for writing your newsletter), Kris! Your perspective is encouraging.

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Aug 18, 2023Liked by Lyle McKeany

All the comments say it all! Thank you for sharing your stories about Emily….and pictures. She seems very happy and is such a beautiful little girl. I’m not sure if you realize what a gift you give to us all by sharing your stories.💕thank you

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Thank you, Aunt Lina! ❤️

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Aug 13, 2023Liked by Lyle McKeany

(I think what got to me about the last sentence is that you ARE a typical dad... and also an extraordinary dad... in extraordinarily challenging circumstances.)

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Thank you, Karen ❤️

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Aug 12, 2023Liked by Lyle McKeany

The last line got me in the heart. As all your writing does.

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❤️

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One day at a time. Focus on the smiles. Lots to learn, celebrate and embrace about your version of normal.

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❤️

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This is the very first story I read of yours, Lyle, and it made me an instant subscriber. Reading it for the second time affected me just as much - spiritually and physically. It felt like someone reached into my chest and gave my heart a tight squeeze. You are all three so brave. I know you have to be, you have no other choice, but still -- such inspiration! I am counting my many blessings this morning.

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Thank you so much, Sharron!

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Aug 12, 2023Liked by Lyle McKeany

Another well written piece. Em and Allison are both blessed to have you. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, your life and your love for Em. I love the photos ♥️ Auntie Barb

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Thank you, Barb!

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Wonderful piece, Lyle. I admire your dedication to being open and sharing these experiences with us. <3

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Thank you, Sara ❤️

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Feb 6, 2022Liked by Lyle McKeany

Infinitely inspiring, thank you Lyle

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Thanks, Chandler! Hope you’re doing well

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Feb 5, 2022Liked by Lyle McKeany

Em hit the parent and sister jackpot!

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♥️

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