Chasing Hope: Your Compass for a New Normal: Navigating the World of the Special Needs Child

by Christine Walker

Overview

Christine Walker's son was just four years old when he was diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder, and autism. In 2004, knowledge of and resources for childhood mental illness were scarce and Christine was thrust into a lonely maze of figuring out which treatments, therapies, and medications could help her child. In the decade since his diagnosis, Christine often wished for a manual, a guide that would pass on "real deal" mom-to-mom information and tips she needed to sometimes just get through the day and ultimately to help her family navigate this maze with knowledge, grace, humor, and love. For those at the beginning of the journey, this is that manual.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940149432875
Publisher:	RTC Publishing
Publication date:	04/02/2014
Series:	The ORP Library , #8
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	200
File size:	5 MB

About the Author

Christine Walker�s background is in public policy. Prior to becoming a parent, Christine worked with government leaders in Washington, D.C., Illinois, and Ohio. As such, Christine brings her unique experience with disabilities to the public policy arena.

Following an award-winning career with Tiffany & Co. Business Sales, Christine returned to her policy roots once her family�s challenges became apparent. Christine is a dedicated advocate for children�s mental health and works tirelessly to educate policymakers to enhance the lives of families raising children with hidden disabilities.

In the past, Christine has attended the invitation-only Rosalynn Carter Mental Health Symposium at the Carter Center in Atlanta with fellow professionals and advocates. Also, Christine has attended the One Mind for Research conference held at UCLA and is involved with the Illinois Mental Health Summit. Christine also serves on the New Trier Township Committee on Disabilities, working toward enhancing the lives of those living with disabilities in her community. Additionally, Christine has served as a teaching assistant for a course on the legislative process at Northwestern University.

In 2004, Christine had her first book published. The Smart Mom�s Guide to Staying Home: 65 Simple Ways to Thrive, not Deprive, on One Income shows families how to live well for less. Christine and her book were profiled on Fox and Friends, CLTV�s �Your Money,� WGN, the New York Times, Parade, Chicago Tribune, and other publications.

Christine holds a Masters of Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University and a BA in Political Science from Lake Forest College. She lives in Winnetka, Illinois.

If you would like to contact Christine, please visit www.chasinghope.com. Chasing Hope, LLC is a consulting firm which supports families raising a child with autism and/or mental illness. You can also follow her on Twitter: @chasinghope2014.

Editorial Reviews

�Chasing Hope is a GPS for any family raising a child with special needs. Written by a parent on the journey, Christine Walker gives not only hope to parents, but simple, effective, and meaningful steps to be part of policy solutions.�

Chasing Hope - Former Congressman John Edward Porter

�Christine Walker�s Chasing Hope presents a candid portrayal of an ongoing journey. . . . Chasing Hope honestly addresses the sadness, disappointment, frustration, and anger. It also captures the hope and happiness associated with her son. This book, which highlights extensive and exhaustive searching, offers tremendous insights to families with children with significant needs. Chasing Hope should be read by all parents, educators, and physicians.�

Chasing Hope - Dr. Tim Thomas

�Chasing Hope is not only a resource for families with children with autism and mental illness, but for policy makers as well. . . . The resolution of policy failures is only possible when brave families, like the Walkers, give voice to the issues. That Mrs. Walker had to become an expert in Schuyler�s condition and the policy options available is heartbreaking, but her commitment to sharing the knowledge she acquired will undeniably help countless families.�

Chasing Hope - Dr. Angela Fontes

�As a health professional and parent of a child with ASD I found myself reliving many of the emotions and feelings that were evoked by this book. . . . it is important for health professionals, policy makers, and other parents to hear such stories so that further action can be taken to improve help for future generations. I would encourage everyone who has an interest in this area to read this account and to reflect on the issues raised.�

Chasing Hope - Dr. Khalid Karim