Who We Are and Why We Do It
At The Holland House Project, we understand that every family’s journey is unique, especially when navigating the challenges of raising a disabled child. Our mission is simple yet profound: to be a beacon of support during times of crisis.
We are a dedicated team of compassionate professionals and volunteers who believe that no family should face these struggles alone. Whether it's the heart-wrenching moment of diagnosis, the day-to-day challenges of care, or the profound grief of loss, we stand ready to help. Our services are designed to provide emotional and financial support, helping families access vital counseling services that address trauma, grief, and the nuances of maintaining healthy relationships during trying times.
We do this because we recognize the gaps that exist in support systems for families with disabled children. Our commitment is to empower families, ensuring they have the resources needed to foster resilience and healing. Through our work, we strive to create a safe space where families can feel understood, supported, and equipped to face the challenges ahead—together. The Holland House Project is more than just a service; it’s a community built on love, empathy, and shared experiences.
Many parents experience Our Story
When our son Michael was born, my wife Susan and I were delivered an unexpected and heartbreaking diagnosis: Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The news shattered our world. We felt lost, engulfed in a sense of grief and trauma that was impossible to articulate.
In an effort to steer our family in a different direction, we pursued a sex selection procedure, hoping to avoid another son with Duchenne. Two years later, we welcomed twin girls, Emily and Olivia. In what felt like a cruel twist of fate, our joy was short-lived when we discovered that Emily had a rare brain malformation. The challenges of raising two children with significant disabilities were overwhelming. We navigated endless battles with schools and medical professionals, often feeling exhausted and isolated.
Despite the difficulties, our family remained a source of strength. We are incredibly stubborn, and we leaned on one another. Still, the weight of trauma, PTSD, grief, and the constant struggle to support our children took its toll. Everything came to a head with the unimaginable loss of Emily on May 16th, 2013, followed by Michael's passing on August 3rd, 2021. Each loss deepened our wounds and tested our resolve.
According to Dr. Ann Gold Buscho in Psychology Today, approximately 87% of parents of disabled children experience divorce. Thankfully, Susan and I defied those odds. Our marriage persevered, but it wasn’t by chance. We stumbled into marriage counseling, which became a lifeline for us. Our counselor provided us with tools to cope with our losses, communicate effectively, and support each other through our darkest days.
We learned that every family grieves in their own way, but uniformly, mentally healthy parents are better equipped to support their children. This realization ignited a passion within us to help others facing similar struggles.
At The Holland House Project, we are dedicated to ensuring that families access the counseling services they need. We believe that with the right support, families can rebuild, overcome, and thrive. Our mission is to offer love, understanding, and accessibility to resources for those navigating the heart-wrenching challenges of raising children with disabilities. Together, we can help families weather the storms and strengthen their bonds.
