My husband and I have educated our children since 1987. Since 1992, we have been dealing with serious medical and physical difficulties as I, Mom, and two of our children have developed mitochondrial myopathy - a metabolic disease that affects our muscles, brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and vision. Our youngest is our most affected and uses oxygen, monitors, a ventilator, and has a pacemaker. In addition to, he uses mobility equipment, an alternative communication device, wears leg braces, and has a v.p. shunt. Our youngest is so affected by his disease, we are glad we already homeschool.

Some parents choose to homeschool because of an illness. At a time when they already have to deal with a diagnosis, they also must learn how to manage their child's education.

Understandably for some, the illness/disability is so overwhelming, that even though it is decided in the child's best interest to be home educated, the parents are stretched too thin and can't begin to know how or where to start. It is our hope that connecting with other home educators will provide opportunities for families to share "what works" for them, and offer on-going support for each other.

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