Paulie and Me

A poignant account of the author's life along the southeastern shores of the Georgian Bay, Paulie and Me explores a young woman's coming-of-age with a special needs sibling. A tale of imperfection and heartbreak, emotions collide and divide a family. Yet layered throughout, like the lines of the Bay's granite shores, is a tale of achievement, courage, and determination. Paulie and Me is a story with which many families will relate. It is for siblings caring for and about their own brother or sister with special needs. It is for those learning to become advocates in order to navigate complex legal, health, and social systems to ensure that bias or vulnerability does not harm someone who cannot always use their own voice. It addresses with authenticity the heavy weight that can rest on individuals in these situations and the impact on their lives and family relationships. It is a guidepost to show you that you aren't alone, that what you feel is natural, and to acknowledge that community needs to come together to support each other, to advocate, and to educate. But most of all, Paulie and Me is a story of validation, forgiveness, and love.