16 Comments
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Melinda's avatar

Such a thoughtful, beautiful gift. An essential document, I and I think many would not think of. Thank you for sharing. A window seat to Cooperโ€™s beautiful world. Safe, loved and happy. The goal for all parents and caregivers. Cooper and a lot of kids and adults just need these things in their own unique way. Kate, you and Cooper are a light to so many. Thank you for the view.

Linda Gorman-Roberts's avatar

That is the most beautiful letter I have ever read. I know it isn't meant for that but you can feel your love through the whole letter. Please know that you have gotten your point across clear in that letter, Cooper's happiness comes before anything, and should. Thank you for sharing your most inner feelings. You go momma!๐Ÿ’œ๐Ÿ’œ

Eleanor Gaccetta's avatar

This was a heartfelt message that truly captures the emotions of caregiving. Your words offer encouragement, understanding, and hope to anyone beginning this important journey. https://www.onecaregiversjourney.com/

Kristy Ericson's avatar

Oh my goodness Kate...this made me cry. I have 16 year old twin boys. One is severe moderate and the other is mild moderate. Both verbal but still can't hold a conversation. I'm in the process of getting their future set up. Just purchased my cremation plan and in process of looking for ash burial. I also just started a Final Wishes book to complete, but I needed some guidance on how to delegate things for my boys and this was exactly what I needed. Thank you so much. My biggest fear is what will happen to my boys once I pass. They'll be 18 next year and I will be signing forms for Supported Decision Making instead of a conservatorship. I don't know if you know about SDM. It makes you in control along with your son instead of the courts. A conservatorship is horrible. I have lots of info on it. If you are interested, I can send you the 52 page digital booklet. It explains the difference between the two. If anyone else on here would like a copy of it too, I can gladly send it. Regional Centers, schools, doctors only talk about conservatorships but there are other options that don't put the courts in charge of your child. I'm definitely going to do a letter of intent like you did. Such an awesome thing! Thank you again!

Catherine Wolf's avatar

I want to do this for my son. I was going to call it the Book of Gabriel. You are correct, it's very hard to sit down and write it because of the breaks to step away and cry. ๐Ÿ’•โœจ

Pam Steele's avatar

Beautifully written and yet so sad at the same time. I really hope yall can make it to see the whales. The Right whales will be here in Florida around December and they hang out a bit thru the first part of the next year. They put on a show and sometimes have their calfs with them. I am going to try to video it for him

Linda Gorman-Roberts's avatar

I guess I thought everyone did what you are doing. I mean, how would people know about your kiddo if you don't. I would definitely make one. And adjust it as time goes by and circumstances change. What you wrote is perfect in every way. You told them everything about Cooper in one letter. Cooper is simple, his needs are simple but hard at the same time. You only need someone that loves Cooper. That should really not be hard to find. I know it seems I'm talking flippant and I don't mean to but I can't see anyone not loving Cooper. You go momma, you got this!!๐Ÿ’œ๐Ÿ’œ

WS Ranch's avatar

This is perfection

Rachelle Darragh's avatar

I will complete this for my son. But I couldnโ€™t stop the tears reading Cooperโ€™s letterโ€ฆnot sure how I will get this done.

Kelly Mcclurg's avatar

Thank you Kate โค๏ธ I've thought about this exact thing multiple times....knowing I need to do this! This is the motivation I needed to just start it. I know I don't have to finish it in one day...but just start it ๐Ÿ’– My husband doesn't even know my daughter like I do...I am 1000% her person โค๏ธ

JenT's avatar

I have a notebook with things about my boy. Many of the same things you talked about. We sing a lot. Not as much as we used to. He has a few favorite songs. Some from Sesame Street and the title song from Winnie the Pooh. I have made up several silly songs over the years. Some of those are my favorites because they're about us. I made a point to write the lyrics and melodies in his notebook, so someday when I'm gone he can teach them to his caretaker. It is so incredibly hard to do these tasks, but will help him remember me and make his transition as smooth as possible.

TL Johns's avatar

I hope yโ€™all can go see the whales together soon! โค๏ธ

Anna's avatar

Once again you suggest a thoughtful way to help the children. I consider you to be an amazing mom to so many.

You a guiding light to be followed for sure.

Amy Sanders's avatar

Thank you for sharing โค๏ธ

Esined Willis's avatar

Thank you, for your beautiful words. Will definitely add my folder for him.

Heather Cadenhead's avatar

Thank you for this. So many similarities between our boys, too.