Welcome to Marvels and Moxie and my inaugural blog! My name is Brenda and I am the Proud Mama of a beautiful boy named Brian. It has been my heart’s desire for quite some time to share about my journey with my marvel, Brian, (who certainly has lots of moxie!) with the hope that my experiences in raising a son with special needs will be an encouragement, humorous, and helpful for those of us whose lives have been blessed by  these Precious Marvels!

Brian has Down syndrome and autism, is non-verbal, and  LOVES music, eating, water, and Frozen! Brian uses sign language and a communication app on his i-pad for speech. He also has severe sensory integration issues, experiences great difficulty with transitions, and gives the best hugs in the world! Brian requires assistance with all activities of daily living, had open heart surgery at 3 months old, wears glasses and orthotics, and was recently diagnosed with scoliosis requiring  him to wear a back brace at night. Despite all of these challenges, Brian inspires my husband, Jim, and I, with his perseverance, resilience, and total trust that all of his needs will be taken care of.  I have learned this lesson often from my son throughout his 12+ years of  life and still continue to do so. He has been my Best Teacher and continues to show me things that I am capable of  that I would have never dreamed were possible before, such as being an Advocate, Medical Expert, Social Director, Therapist, and my favorite role of all-  his Mom! ♡♡♡

Until we meet again, thanks for reading! 🙂