“My name is Emerson and I love everybody.”

Did you know that May is Williams Syndrome Awareness Month?

Williams syndrome is a genetic condition characterized by medical problems, including cardiovascular disease, developmental delays, and learning disabilities. People with Williams Syndrome also tend to have enhanced verbal abilities, highly social personalities and an affinity for music. It effects 1 in 10,000 people worldwide – an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 people in the United States.

We interview Amy Connell-Donohue, the mother of 11 year old Emerson who was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome when she was 1. Amy shares her road to diagnosis and the challenges of finding out that your child is not typical. She also shares lessons from Emerson and says that she’s the glue that holds the family together. Amy’s article about her family is in the May issue of Chicago Parent, it’s titled Having it All.

We know Emerson personally and she is dear to our heart! Learn more about Williams Syndrome here: http://williams-syndrome.org/

Whispering Trails Music Therapy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gF4DiqEdN3w

Other Resources:

Click here to find Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent 1 & 2, click here to find her blog, and click here to find her Chicago Parent column.

Todd has a few spots opening for his Men’s Group. Email me @ comments@zenparentingradio.com

Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. An outline can be found here.

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How important is a good smile? Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS. They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs.

Painting or remodeling? Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co.