Today marks the first day of the new school year here in the town where Rising Above has its national ministry offices. Since we follow a year-round school calendar, our students head back a little earlier than most.

Cheated? The question comes up often. Usually, it’s from well-intentioned people who don’t fully understand the perspective God has given me when it comes to raising a child with disabilities.

This year marks a truly special milestone—we are celebrating 20 years of ministry! As we reflect on the past two decades, we are filled with gratitude for all God has done through Rising Above to serve and support families with special needs.

I can remember back 15 years ago when we were expecting Jon Alex, and our friends and family were hosting baby showers for us.

I spent most of this Father’s Day weekend in a funk. I should have seen it coming because it tends to affect me like this every year.

One of my biggest struggles as the dad of a son with profound special needs is jealousy. After 15 years, you would think I would be capable of rising above it, but it still strikes from time to time.