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Illness & disability
Illness & disability
Do you know someone with an illness or disability? My sister or brother has an illness or disability
My sister or brother has an illness or disability
If you have a sibling with an illness or disability, you may feel:
- Guilty because you don't have the same struggle
- Lonely because you think no one gets what you're going through or because you feel that you don't get to spend much time with your parents or guardians
- Jealous of all the attention your sister or brother gets
You may also feel:
- Proud of your sister or brother
- Glad that you have the chance to be helpful to someone who needs it
Having such different emotions all at the same time might seem strange. But all these feelings are normal.
Want to talk to others who have a sister or brother with special needs? Check out The Sibling Support Project. Anne is 14 and has a brother with cerebral palsy. Read her story about the joys and the tough times that come with having a sister or brother with special needs.
Check out what young people with disabled siblings have to say:
"I have two younger brothers who are autistic. It doesn't bother me at all and I am not embarrassed very much. I feel bad for people who don't know how to react to them well, it makes me feel bad for them. They are the two cutest little boys I know and if others can't see it then they are missing out. Most of my friends adore my little brothers and like to see them and play with them when they are at my house. This makes me feel good because I know that people out there respect them as people and that makes me proud. I would be ashamed if I was embarrassed of my brothers."
– Maxi, Minnesota"I have a 10-year-old brother with Mild Autism. I hate it but, I deal with it."
– Elizabeth, Illinois"My little brother has a mental disorder. He's 11 now, but when he was younger, I was really embarrassed. Now I love him for who he is."
– Normadi Smith, Ohio"I have three older sisters. Two of them are disabled. I think people that don't have disabled siblings are lucky."
– Ruby
Content last updated October 21, 2009
