Joy in Caring for a Child with Special Needs

Kara Dedert

Thousands of families quietly and lovingly care for children with special needs. Though the days are often long and hard, many find joy in their calling and would not trade their calling for anything. Kara Dedert and her family reflect this joy in the ordinary and extraordinary moments of caring for their son and brother, Calvin. In her introduction to her blog, Kara writes, “You’ll find me writing about the good, gritty, gracy parts of faith, family and home. I’m married to Darryl and we have five kids. One of our sons has severe disabilities from Zika. It’s broken our hearts and also filled us with hope – I write about that, too.

We’re grateful for Kara’s willingness to not only write about her journey, but to talk with Sharon Betters about the everyday struggles and joys of caring for Calvin and how his life has drawn his entire family deeper into the heart of Jesus.

Connect with Kara at karadedert.com

Biography of Kara Dedert

From Kara: “Life is filled with extraordinary heartbreak and joy; I like to write about it and faith lessons learned along the way.  Darryl and I have been blessed with four kids — Sophie, Noah, Evelyn, and Calvin. Darryl and I had anticipated a life overseas but after five years as missionaries in Cambodia we had a son, Calvin, born with a neuronal migration disorder and severe brain malformations. Our lives have changed drastically but God continues to display His faithfulness and grace in our lives.” 

Along with caring for Calvin and her family, Kara is an experienced freelance writer and has worked in the individual and family services industry. Kara is skilled in social media marketing, and working with nonprofit organizations, Kara has a Bachelor's degree focused in Business Administration from Cornerstone University.

Be encouraged by Kara’s writing at https://www.karadedert.com/