Posts by: Betty Vertin

On a Facebook page that documents our family’s journey with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, I recently posted about how invitations to birthday parties and friends’ houses are not typical for my ... Read more

October 15, 2021October 15, 2021

I Carry Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Which Was Hard to Accept

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

I think all moms need strong shoulders and extra arms. We carry purses, diaper bags, backpacks, and discarded jackets. Duchenne moms carry more, including sometimes our kids and their equipment, ... Read more

October 8, 2021October 8, 2021

Meeting My Children’s Needs With Good School Relationships

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

I have a decorative sign hanging on a wall that says, “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” The fall reminds me that we need ... Read more

October 1, 2021October 1, 2021

Preparing to Be Caregivers for Adults With Duchenne MD

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

Three of my boys were diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy when they were small. We’ve spent many years preparing to be caregivers for them as adults with Duchenne. We remodeled ... Read more

September 24, 2021September 24, 2021

Why I Love the Ordinary Moments of Motherhood

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

I love the everyday, ordinary moments of motherhood. Maybe I’m crazy, but the laundry (no matter how never-ending), groceries, menu planning, and chauffeuring of kids all bring me so much ... Read more

September 17, 2021September 17, 2021

My Sons Decide Whether to Attend the Homecoming Dance

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

It’s homecoming week here in Nebraska. Our local high school has its homecoming football game today, and the dance is tomorrow. I love homecoming. It’s a time of fun and ... Read more

September 10, 2021September 10, 2021

When Mom Is Tired, Caregiving Is Hard

COVID-19 Columns, Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

I saw a meme today that said, “I need a day between every day to recover from the day before and prepare for the upcoming day.” I could not have ... Read more

September 3, 2021September 3, 2021

What I’ve Learned About Anxiety and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

Our family has encountered many challenges in our journey with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and there will be more to come. If I were to ask the question, “What is the ... Read more

August 27, 2021August 27, 2021

Parenting in a Duchenne Family Is Hard, But What About the Siblings?

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

It’s tempting to label the siblings of those who have Duchenne muscular dystrophy as the “unaffected siblings.” But I can never seem to get those words out of my mouth. ... Read more

August 20, 2021August 20, 2021

My Son Is Living a Fuller Life Than We Ever Imagined

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

My oldest son with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Max, starts his sophomore year in high school this week. He will be halfway through his high school education by the end of ... Read more

August 13, 2021August 13, 2021

6 Ideas for Back-to-School Success

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

My kids return to school next week. As always, there is so much to do to get ready. In addition to back-to-school shopping and open house, I have to ensure ... Read more

August 6, 2021August 6, 2021

This Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Family Lives Life to Its Fullest

Muscular Dystrophy News Columns

A hostess I am not! Planning a child’s birthday party or hosting a team meal is the extent of my party planning skills. I am usually introverted and quiet, and ... Read more