The Hidden Churn

My Story—The “Why”—and What is The Hidden Churn?

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I was born legally blind, with tumors on both optic nerves, and no one knew for years. The doctor told my parents I was “stupid.” After they discovered what was wrong and sought help, I continued living with physical and mental exhaustion, straining to read and process unfamiliar information and to feel grounded in space due to vestibular (sensory) issues. They did not realize how hard I was still churning. Based on these and other circumstances beyond a child's control, I did not have a voice in many aspects of my life. Through various trials, including a brain tumor that claimed half my dad's brain and being the mother of boys with ADHD, anxiety, and other social, emotional, and cognitive difficulties, the course and purpose of my life became clear. God brought blessing through the challenges and equipped me to serve others on a level I could not otherwise have achieved. I engage in nonprofit and professional causes that empower others to have a voice and thrive.

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My book is soon to be released. I entitled it The Hidden Churn because frequently, many of a person’s struggles are practically invisible, and they may appear to be lazy, defiant, or behaviorally disruptive, for example. However, those issues are symptoms of something going awry at a more foundational level. Kids are often unable to articulate what is going on because either they do not understand it themselves, or it is all they have ever known. I did not tell my mom and dad that I could not see, had terrible headaches, and was dizzy because I did not know life could be any other way. Parents are desperately searching for answers. My book, seminars, podcasts, and this page provide a voice to students, caregivers, and teachers, with a roadmap for what to do. If you, your loved ones, or your students are dealing with social, emotional, behavioral, academic, or cognitive difficulties, I hope you find comfort in knowing that I have walked miles in shoes similar to yours (while recognizing that each individual and every story is unique), so I can relate on the deepest level.

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Another critical message I am passionate about is this: It is not just about, "Can my loved one do this, yes or no?" Instead, we need to consider, "How hard do they churn to complete routine tasks the rest of us can easily take for granted?" It is imperative to determine the foundational issues and address the root causes of the struggles instead of masking symptoms. Everyone deserves to be heard and to enjoy their version of the highest quality of life. Thank you for taking this journey with me.

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