Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Counting Life's Unexpected Blessings


Isn't it interesting to look back over our lives and see where the twists and turns of the unexpected change the course of it?  Life just doesn't always work out as planned. Yet, I would have never discovered my purpose if it weren't for my two children being born with cystic fibrosis. It's amazing what adversity can bring when you give life a chance.

It all started thirteen years ago when the words: "I am sorry but your son has cystic fibrosis" became etched in my heart.  At the time, in the depth of my shock, fear and grief, I had no idea that this experience would propel me to become an author, public speaker and advocate for children living with chronic illness.

I have never been one to seek publicity or a spotlight. In fact, public speaking, like most people, was one of my very least favorite things to do. But, through the course of having two kids with CF and needing to learn how to parent them effectively (their very lives depend on it), I am now a public speaker and writer who shares what I've learned through years of study, research, and personal experience.  

I love what I do. Not because of the spotlight, which I am still somewhat uncomfortable being in at times, but because of the help and hope that I am able to offer others as they travel down their own path of raising a child with medical issues.

Even though the road is hard at times, we can all take comfort in the fact that unexpected challenges in life can bring us unexpected blessings if we are willing partners in this journey called "Life".

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Lisa C. Greene is the mother of two children with cystic fibrosis, a certified parent coach, parenting educator, and public speaker. She is also the co-author with Foster Cline, MD of the award-winning Love and Logic® book “Parenting Children with Health Issues.”  For free audio, articles and other resources, visit www.ParentingChildrenWithHealthIssues.com


CF PARENTS: Register for Lisa's upcoming teleclass called "Winning with CF" starting on February 1, 2012. For information and registration, visit www.WinningWithCF.com.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Self Destruction: When medical professionals find it difficult to keep their oath


Every month, we receive at least one question from a parent or professional that has to do with a patient or loved one making self-destructive decisions. Certainly this is one of the most frustrating situations for a medical professional. When a client or patient insists on making unhealthy decisions that definitely shorten life or decrease functioning, a medical professional feels unable to complete the oath to preserve life. But, we don’t take an oath to preserve life…. We take an oath to do our best and do no harm!

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Children and Responsibility: Teach your children take control of their health

Responsibility. Parents want their kids to take more of it and kids just don’t want it. Responsibility is kind of like that gooey, green slime kids love to play with. It oozes around in a family and can slither off in all different directions. Parents can easily slosh, slip and fall when carrying ooze that should belong to the kids. It’s pretty frustrating to slip on ooze that someone else should have scooped up! The ebb and flow of responsibility becomes very important when life and death issues are present in a child’s life.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Shares How to Teach Kids Responsibility: The Five Essential E’s: ENCOURAGEMENT! Part 5 of 5

This blog is the last in our five-part series about how to teach children to be responsible. The Five Essential E's form the foundation of effective parenting and include Example, Experience, Empathy, Expectations, and Encouragement. This week, we'll discuss Encouragement.

Friday, December 2, 2011

Help for the Holidays: Tips for Staying Sane and Safe

The holidays can be a time of great joy and stress especially when you have a child at home with special medical needs. A little planning ahead can help make the holidays go smoothly.