22 Comments
User's avatar
aslynch's avatar

Okay, so you have me in tears, Lyle, but in a good way. I’ll be sending you a private email. Between my own kids’ health issues and being a former special educator, there’s lots to discuss if you’re open to it.

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Yes, I would love that, please reach out. My email is lyle.mckeany@gmail.com

Chandler Helmholz's avatar

Very nice Lyle

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thanks, Chandler!

Cole Feldman's avatar

What I appreciate so much about your writing in this piece, Lyle, is that it's so honest, personal, and real.

Lyle McKeany's avatar

I appreciate this a lot, Cole! I’m so glad my writing resonates for you.

Along the Ray's avatar

Lyle, thank you for sharing such a a beautiful story. As parents you essentially define your children's limits or "un-limits."

In my case while mom was pregnant with me she had German Measles (rubella) and was advised to have an abortion. She declined.

I came into the world fine for the most part except with a profound hearing loss. My parents were advised to send me away to a boarding school for the deaf. They declined and vowed I would have as normal a life as possible.

Through their hard work, many tears, and enduring faith in me I ended up being an excellent lip reader and having sufficient enough speech that most folks could understand me. From first grade forth I was "mainstreamed" into regular schools and excelled.

It was hard and it was not easy for all, including me, but I'm so very glad they persisted and had faith in me because I wouldn't be where I am without them as a fiercely independent and thriving individual who happens to be deaf.

All the best to your family. : )

Ray

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you so much for sharing, Ray. Your story is comforting to read. I know how big a role we play as parents, especially at my daughter's current age. We just have to stay strong and keep trying.

Sasha Levage's avatar

As always, beautiful.

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you, Sasha!

Alex Olshonsky's avatar

Stirring, poignant, and beautiful. My favorite yet. Well done, brother.

Lyle McKeany's avatar

I appreciate it, my friend!

Linda McLachlan's avatar

Love reading your work.

Jackie Dana's avatar

Wow, Lyle. That was a beautiful, sweet piece. I wish the best to you and your family.

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thanks, Jackie!

Roger Farley's avatar

Thanks for sharing Lyle. Beautiful piece in every way.

Nishant Jain's avatar

This was a beautiful read, Lyle. More strength to you, Allison, and Em! I look forward to when you share her first words with us. :)

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Me too! Thanks, Nishant!

yashmi adani / notsupersmart's avatar

This was such a joy to read!

Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thank you, Yashmi!