A local mum is hoping her newly published book will help other families feel less alone, while shining a light on the challenges parents face when trying to access support for children with additional needs.
Sarah Ross has written Surviving – The experience of one SEN mum, a deeply personal and honest account of raising her daughter, who has autism, and the emotional challenges her family has faced.
Sarah’s daughter is just eight years old, but their journey has already included some incredibly difficult experiences. At only six, her daughter was formally excluded from mainstream school following a meltdown that staff were not equipped to manage.
Sarah doesn’t blame the school, her daughter or herself. Instead, she believes the experience highlights wider failings in a system struggling to meet children’s needs.
In one particularly heartbreaking account, Sarah describes taking her daughter to A&E during a severe meltdown in which she was harming herself and her mum. Desperate for assistance, Sarah pleaded for help, but says none was provided.
Her book explores the reality of being a SEN parent, from the exhaustion and heartbreak to the small victories, unconditional love and determination to keep fighting for support.
Sarah hopes that by sharing her family’s experiences, she can raise awareness, encourage change and reassure other parents facing similar struggles that they are not alone.
❤️ This is more than just a book. It’s one mum’s story of love, resilience and refusing to give up on her child.
Surviving by Sarah Ross was published recently and is now available to purchase on Amazon.
📚 Search for “Surviving” by Sarah Ross on Amazon, or scan the QR code in the accompanying image.
We wish Sarah every success with her new book and hope her story reaches the families who need to hear it most.
💬 Are you a parent or carer who has experienced similar difficulties accessing support for a child with additional needs? You’re welcome to share your experiences in the comments.
