Hi friend,

Have you ever sat in your car after an IEP meeting and just cried? Have you felt guilt over your child's struggles or wondered why God allowed these challenges in your family's life?

If you've nodded your head to any of these questions, this week's podcast episode was recorded especially for you.

EP 13: Sensory Processing Disorder, Dyslexia, and Faith: Faith-Based Special Needs Advocacy & Parenting Listen Now

In this powerful episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Rachael Jenneman - a former staff pastor, radio broadcaster, author, and mom of three children with unique learning needs. Rachael also grew up with a brother who has severe autism, giving her a rare perspective from both sides of the special needs journey.

Rachael shares:

• Her experience navigating the "middle ground" when children have needs but don't qualify for services
• Practical strategies she used as a children's pastor to create inclusive environments
• The moment she went from merely loving her son to being "in love with him" during a particularly difficult time
• How her faith has been both challenged and strengthened through her parenting journey

This conversation left me feeling inspired, and I know it will do the same for you.

📖 Weekly Devotional: Finding God's Purpose in Our Challenges

Reflection

In the gospel of John, Jesus encounters a man born blind. When the disciples ask who sinned to cause this affliction, Jesus offers a perspective that fundamentally shifts how we might view challenges in our lives and the lives of our children.

Rachael shared in our conversation how this verse has become her "life story" rather than just a life verse. When faced with her children's diagnoses and struggles, she reminds herself that these challenges exist "so the power of God can be shown through them."

What a powerful reframing! Rather than dwelling on what caused our struggles or who's to blame, we can ask: "How might God's power be revealed through this situation?"

This doesn't minimize the real grief, frustration, or exhaustion we feel as parents. But it does offer us a higher purpose - a reason to persevere when the path seems unbearably difficult.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

I come to You feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility of advocating for my child. You see my tears shed in private moments in the car after difficult meetings. You know the weight of guilt I carry, wondering if I've done enough.

Lord, help me remember that my child's uniqueness is not a mistake but an opportunity for Your power to be displayed. Give me the strength to persevere through evaluations, therapies, and challenging behaviors. Provide the resources I need and surround me with a supportive community.

When I feel isolated, remind me that You are the ultimate advocate who fights on my behalf. Help me to lean into dependence on You rather than trying to carry these burdens alone.

Transform my perspective so I can see beyond the diagnoses to the beautiful purpose You have for my child's life.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

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🌺 Wellness Corner

🚨 FREE WORKSHOP ALERT! 🚨

Parenting children with special needs requires extraordinary mental and emotional resources. But many moms find their own brain function isn't what it used to be! Brain fog, forgetfulness, and trouble focusing can make an already challenging journey even harder.

Join me for a FREE online workshop where I'll share:

• Why "mom brain" happens and how it impacts your ability to advocate effectively
• Natural strategies to improve focus, memory, and mental clarity
• Simple nutrition changes that can dramatically boost cognitive function
• Stress management techniques specifically designed for busy moms
• PLUS a live Q&A session to address your specific challenges

Being at your mental best isn't a luxury - it's essential for navigating the complex world of special needs parenting. This workshop will equip you with practical tools to reclaim your cognitive clarity so you can be the advocate your child needs!

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💞 Creating Community

If you haven't already, please consider joining me in the Facebook group. I hope to build a safe place where Christian mama's can come to be lifted up and supported.

Question of the week: How do you prepare mentally for big meetings or appointments your child has? Reply to this email or post in the group to share!

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I truly appreciate your support!

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Have a topic you want discussed? Interested in being interviewed on the podcast? Looking for natural solutions for your family? I'm just an email away! :) I'd love to hear from you!

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Share your thoughts, prayer requests, or simply connect with our growing community on Instagram @speaking_life_into_motherhood or join our private Facebook group Speaking Life Into Motherhood.

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With love and grace,

Elyse

P.S. If this episode resonated with you, would you consider sharing it with a friend who might need it? Sometimes the greatest gift we can give another mother is the reminder that she's not alone in her struggles.

Elyse Scheeler Podcast Host of Speaking Life Into Motherhood Speech Language Pathologist, Wellness Coach, doTerra Wellness Advocate "Empowering transformations by speaking life into mind, body, and soul."