Connect with warrior moms who understand and inspire
We are a community of warrior moms – strong, passionate, and caring moms who are dedicated to supporting each other through the challenges of raising a child with a rare disease.
Caring for a child with a rare disease can be overwhelming and isolating, but you are not alone. Here, you’ll find a safe and supportive space to share your experiences, ask for advice, and find resources to help you and your child thrive.
As a member of this community, you’ll have access to a network of warrior moms who understand the unique challenges of caring for a child with a rare disease. You’ll find strength in connecting with others who have similar experiences, and you’ll have a platform to share your own story and inspire others.
We encourage you to ask questions, offer support, and engage in meaningful conversations with other members of the community. Whether you need advice on managing symptoms or want to share a small victory, this is the place to do it.
We’re committed to providing you with the resources you need to be the best warrior mom you can be. From educational articles and expert advice to community events and local resources, we’re here to help you navigate the ups and downs of your journey.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. We’re honored to have you as a member of the Warrior Moms Community and we look forward to supporting you every step of the way.
Feature Article: Warrior Dad
TJ, Warrior Dad
TJ is a warrior Dad and the Executive Director of Ben’s Friends, as well as a rare disease patient himself. Currently celebrating his 47th wedding anniversary, TJ had to retire from his medical career due to his own illness and found solace in Ben’s Friends. With 14 adopted children, each facing their own special needs such as neurological disorders, cancer, autoimmune conditions, diabetes, and kidney disease, TJ’s family has navigated numerous challenges. Unexpectedly becoming caregivers to their grandchildren due to disability and the loss of their parents, they have embraced their unique journey. As they near the end of this chapter, with only two children left at home and a temporary resident of 24 years, they cherish the resilience and love that have carried them through.
Parenting a Child With a Chronic Illness
Parenting a child with chronic illness is challenging, but it’s important to establish clear expectations, discipline, and consistent limits. Open communication, maintaining a predictable schedule, and promoting treatment adherence are key. Avoiding power struggles and offering choices can help the child feel in control. Self-care is crucial for parents, while encouraging children to express their feelings and providing coping strategies is beneficial. Working closely with the school during transitions is essential. By implementing these strategies, parents can effectively support their child with chronic illness and help them navigate the challenges they face.
Latest Discussions
- Last Chance to Support Ben’s Friends in 2024 – Every Donation Counts!by ModSupport on December 30, 2024
As we count down the final hours of 2024, I want to personally thank the 100+ donors who have already contributed over $27,000 to our Friends Helping Friends campaign. Your generosity is nothing short of inspiring, and it lays the foundation for the vital work Ben’s Friends will accomplish in 2025. While we haven’t quite reached our campaign goal yet, there is still time for you to help. 1) Donate Today With just two days left, your donation can make a lasting impact. Every dollar […]
- From Isolation to Connection: The Role of Community Supportby ModSupport on December 19, 2024
As we approach the end of our year-end campaign, I wanted to share a powerful reminder of the impact your support makes. A Message from the Heart: We’ve just received an incredibly moving video from Jaz, one of our community members. In just a few moments, she captures the essence of why your support for Ben’s Friends is so crucial. Watch Jaz’s Powerful Message Now Jaz’s words remind us of the profound difference we make together. Your donation helps transform loneliness into […]
- See How Ben’s Friends Changes Lives + Double Your Impactby BF_Admin on December 16, 2024
Campaign Update: If you have already donated to the campaign, THANK YOU. We are well over $15,000 for the campaign and the Matching Gift Challenge is really heating up (over 20 donors have already had their donations matched). If you want to double your impact there is still time. Donate today! As we continue our year-end campaign, I wanted to share with you the incredible impact Ben’s Friends has on those facing rare diseases. Here are just a few testimonials from our community members: […]
- Exciting Update: Double Your Impact for Rare Disease Support!by ModSupport on December 13, 2024
I hope this message finds you well. As we approach the end of the year, I wanted to share an exciting update on our “Friends Helping Friends” campaign and a special opportunity to double your impact. Campaign Progress: Thanks to the incredible generosity of supporters like you, we’ve raised almost $11,000 towards our $50,000 goal. This is a fantastic start, but with just three weeks left, we still have a way to go to ensure we can continue providing vital support to our rare disease […]
- This Giving Tuesday, Make Sure No One Faces Rare Disease Aloneby ModSupport on December 2, 2024
As we approach the end of the year, I’m reaching out with an urgent request on behalf of thousands of patients with rare diseases and chronic illnesses who rely on Ben’s Friends for support and connection. Our mission is critical: to ensure that no one faces a rare disease alone. Thanks to donors like you, we have recently: Redesigned our community sites for easier navigation Launched the Warrior Moms support site for caregivers Created an online training facility for moderators and […]
