I work extensively with people that have special needs. It is very tough work. Although I do not have any family members with special needs such as a physical or cognitive disability, I have tremendous repsect for the many families that struggle to provide the highest quality of life possible for their family member with special needs.
When I talk with many people about what I do for a living, they usually make some comment that it is wonderful that people with special needs have people like me who care for them. I know that is is critical that people with special needs have someone, either a family member, a close friend or some other advocate, to continually look out for their best interests. Individuals and society often prey on vulnerable people.
However, the biggest contribution that I make to improve the lives of the people with whom I work is to be someone for whom they can care. Whenever we have severe weather, many of the special needs people with whom I work ask if I had any damage. If I sneeze or cough while talking on the phone, many will ask about my health. We all seek a general purpose in our lives. People with special needs are no different. If for no other reason, people with special needs are deserving of quality lives because they can and do care about other people.
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