Against the Odds

About the Book

“Being a parent is a hard job, especially when the children are young. Being a single parent makes the relationship more complex and time-consuming. Finally, coping with children with disabilities makes this even more demanding. Samuel—author, professor of mathematics, trained singer, and single mother of two sons diagnosed with autism—states that raising them well is possible and can bring a lot of satisfaction. This memoir/self-help book is full of optimism and exclamation points....  The parent’s role never ends, apparently, but with patience, individual attention, love, organization, and adjustments to expectations, daily life is manageable, even enjoyable.” -The US Review of Books According to a U.S. census study, about 20% of U.S. residents cope with special needs. Parents and caregivers who are faced with this issue of special needs experience feelings of denial, confusion, guilt, anger and hopelessness. Caring for special needs individuals is not an easy task, but it is possible. It is a journey that brings out the best in any individual who has chosen to embrace that challenge. The author gives the details of her journey as a mother of two boys with multiple special needs and illustrates the strategies that she has used to deal with the daily struggles that life presents her as she mothers her two children. She explains how acceptance of this challenge has led to it being the greatest blessing of her life. Against the odds is an inspiring narrative that will provide guidance for parents and caregivers who are searching for new tools and insights into how to raise children with special needs and for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of this important subject.

About the Author

Delia D. Samuel is a mathematics professor and has taught mathematics at colleges and universities in Minnesota and St. Lucia. She holds a Master of Philosophy degree in computer science, a Master of Science degree in mathematics, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in mathematics. She is also the author of four mathematics textbooks written for middle and high school students. Dr. Samuel has two sons, who are both on the autism spectrum. They live together in Fridley, Minnesota.