The Man of My Dreams, who has been in my life since July, helped raise his ex-wife’s son (32 now). This child was brilliant but very troubled (plus ADD)and they spent years with him in therapy, special schools, institutions and such, plus never had a “down” time until after he grew up and went into the Army. They never had children of their own, because they didn’t know how they’d be able to give that child any of their attention. I have a local friend with the same story–such severe ADD that all they could do was spend all their time on the one son. Both of these sons now can earn a living–the former even has a fiancee who understands him because she has ADD as well.

So, I guess what I wanted to say is that the good news is there can be light at the end of the tunnel. I think you are seeing it with Son, who has turned into a unique and interesting person, as well.

Know that some of us with children whose challenges and issues are not as big (they ALL have something!) really admire those who cope so well with their “difficult” children and have sympathy for the hard work it takes to give them the time and attention they deserve to really come through and shine.

suna