The author traces thirty years in the life of her son Alex, who has Down syndrome, her second of three children. Lightning struck a seemingly blessed, ordinary family. But the mother soon transforms that lightning into energy—powered by love and a deep, rooted, and pragmatic commitment to justice and will.
Alex today is an independent young man with a job and a girlfriend, capable even of regretting his own disability. His resources and abilities have been nurtured and encouraged, and he has realized his dreams. He has played sports successfully, attended school, and shared experiences with his siblings.
The book is a practical guide, a testimony to feelings, suffering, uncertainty, and hardship. All of it—meant to be faced and overcome with guidance and advice from the right people, with the determined resolve of a family whose members are bound together by deep, mutual affection and solidarity.
"Every battle, every experience—good and bad—has made Alex who he is today: a happy young man, determined and full of resources, and above all, able to face life."
R.M., 2013