Program Brings Teens With Disabled Sibling Together

Mon., March 29, 1999

Renata Rollins North Central

Anyone who has a brother or sister with special needs knows there are unique joys, fears and frustrations that go along with them. Unfortunately, many of these feelings are not shared with anyone when they should be.

Sibshops is designed specifically for that purpose: To allow teenagers with a disabled sibling to gather together and share the emotions they go through.

I went to a meeting because my youngest sister has Down’s syndrome.

The first meeting started with warm-up activities, and gently progressed into the serious portion of the workshop: group discussion. We shared what our experiences, both good and bad, have been with our sibling.

For example, I enjoy helping my sister learn to read and watching her as she improves at school, but at the same time, I am afraid of how she will do socially as she gets older.

During the group discussion, you can really open up and talk about your feelings without having to worry about someone laughing at what you say because we all have an immediate connection with each other.

Sibshops is a nationwide program but the Spokane branch is just beginning. They are looking for teenagers who have siblings with a disability to join the group.

Meetings are held every other month. For more information, call Terry Villalovoz at 328-6326.

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