The Right to a Full Life

Book synopsis:An upbeat account of a mother's journey parenting twins with different disabilities. It is a tale of advocacy outlining the strategies used when working with doctors, teachers and neighbors. It describes how a mother explored options available to her family, looking for the right "fit" and how as a family they worked on the life skills that helped her son and daughter become independent. The importance of communities and the role they play in supporting an individual is explained. The balance between safety and individual autonomy is explored. The lessons shared are instructive to parents of children with and without disabilities.
Autobiography:Mrs. Fickenscher is the parent of twins. An educator for over 30 years, she served in many capacities from classroom teacher to central office administrator. She has been active in promoting opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. When first retired, she worked with a non-profit dedicated to creating intentional communities that support adults with developmental differences as they move into their own places. She is active in her church and community. In her spare time, she travels to places on her bucket list.