Women Fitness: And the second one, Kendra’s Lemonade, which is for educators, parents and caregivers of special needs children. Tell us more about this one.
Kendra: Children are our future and acceptance of others is a key piece of inclusion and diversity. There aren’t many books out there that talk about disabilities or health conditions for children to read or learn from, so that’s why I wanted to write this book. I also, wanted to use it as discussion type for parents, caregivers, and/or educators to use as a tool of learning when discussing differences.
When I was a child I never saw a book talking about being different or having to deal with tough times and in my book the character shows how people, even in the face of real and lifelong challenges, can persevere to make the best of tough situations. Again, using the lemons notion, I describe how a positive attitude helps make the best of life’s challenges as a child with a rare health condition called MPS. Those challenges are discussed as lemons and explained that life’s “lemons” will happen, but that doesn’t mean that those lemons can’t be made into “…the best lemonade possible.” Additionally, I worked in there that we should try not to compare ourselves with others, that being unique is what makes this world a better place.
Women Fitness: Sharing your thoughts and journey with people, why is it so important?
Kendra: Overall I have been exceptionally blessed with people not making fun of me or making rude comments to me throughout the years or at least that I have been made aware of. At the same time I really try to not take offense to comments or remarks from people who I don’t know or who don’t know me. I have had my fair share of those and I kind of laugh about them, because so many times if the person really knew me they would know how ridiculous the statement was.
It is important to remember, we as human beings are naturally curious creatures and my belief is I’d rather others ask the questions and/or make the remark rather than having them stare or wonder. No one in this world knows what it is exactly like to be another person so how do we learn or become more aware of others? In my opinion, the best way to begin to achieve acceptance and inclusion is to help educate or be an open book, which I strive to do. I pride myself on being approachable and inviting by my positive vibe, despite the vibes or comments I receive for others. Honestly, if I can make someone else’s life better then I know I have had a successful day! I am a giver and I am proud of it!
Women Fitness: What advice would you like to give to people dealing with rare diseases, to cope up and lead a normal life?
Kendra: First piece of advice would be to realize that there is no such thing as a “normal person” or “normal life.” Despite what everyone may think…no one in our society is scot free without obstacles or challenges throughout their lifetime. Some are more easily visible to the eye then others, but many times people are going through struggles within themselves, their family, career, or heath we can’t see.
Acceptance of oneself and their rare disease is the key to being successful at dream attainment and steering their life in a direction they want it to head. Remembering that even though the path isn’t always going to be smooth and easy sailing doesn’t mean that the pinnacle of success is going to be less thrilling. We learn something from every up and down life throws at us. Using those lessons learned assists in the determination going forward in pursuit of our future.
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