Parents With Special Needs Children Do Not Have to Go It Alone, Author Says

New book leads parents on a journey of raising children with disabilities and shares the mental, emotional and spiritual battles families face every day when raising them. It was written by Rev. Dr. Crawford Clark, a pastor, counselor and parent of two special needs children.

The Clarks have experienced many struggles along their journey with raising their children. As a pastor/counselor, Clark felt it necessary to write a book that helps people to understand that God has a purpose and a plan for those who find themselves in an environment with those with disabilities. The book helps parents understand what is happening and gives practical advice on how to help them with their children.

Called According to His Purpose: A Journey into the World of Parenting Special Needs Children (published by WestBow Press) tells readers what it is like to raise children with disabilities, including the difficulties with people not being very sympathetic toward children or parents. He covers subjects, such as isolation, identity, idiosyncrasies, education, discipline, community and how God views disabilities. In addition, Clark shares the story of Theodore DeShields, a good friend whose story speaks to everyone. While he was never supposed to be born, he became a strong person of faith who blessed all those around him.

“There are millions of disabled individuals and their caregivers in our world today. This book provides encouragement for those who are caregivers of the disabled and helps them to see a greater purpose behind what they do,” said Clark. “It is written from a very personal perspective, not just from an observant position. In the midst of all the issues that may be associated with special needs individuals, God has a purpose for their existence.”

When asked what he wants readers to take away from the book, Clark answered, “I hope that the story of Theo, which was written by his mother, will be an inspiration to you and that it will help you to see God in a way you never have seen Him before. I hope that this book will help you to experience God through these two families.”