33 Comments
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Alicia Kenworthy's avatar

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!)

E.L. Zeitgeist's avatar

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!

Lyle McKeany's avatar

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.

E.L. Zeitgeist's avatar

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

Lyle McKeany's avatar

You’re so right. Thank you, Alicia!

Mark Koslow's avatar

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

Thomas J Bevan's avatar

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.

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you so much, Thomas!

Amie McGraham's avatar

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.

Lyle McKeany's avatar

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.

Nicola T's avatar

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

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you for reading ❤️

Kris Burbank's avatar

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.

Lyle McKeany's avatar

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

Lina Owsley's avatar

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

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you, Aunt Lina! ❤️

Karen Kenworthy's avatar

(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.)

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you, Karen ❤️

Karen Kenworthy's avatar

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

Kris Burbank's avatar

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

Sharron Bassano's avatar

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.

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you so much, Sharron!

Barbara Sparrow's avatar

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

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you, Barb!

Sara Campbell's avatar

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

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you, Sara ❤️

Chandler Helmholz's avatar

Infinitely inspiring, thank you Lyle

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thanks, Chandler! Hope you’re doing well

Emma Evanson's avatar

Em hit the parent and sister jackpot!