Welcome to SibsNY!

The holidays seem like a wonderful time to begin this blog for, by and about the siblings of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For me, the holidays have always been about family, and my brother, Peter, plays an important role in ours. Peter is two years my elder and when I think back to childhood he was my very first friend. Growing up, I knew that my brother was "different," but I did not have the words that I have today -- Fragile X Syndrome -- to describe why. To me, Peter was an idol, pest and constant companion. He was a source of anger, frustration and jealousy, but also relentless support, silly fun, joy and complete camaraderie. He was my big brother, and together we played, fought, laughed, cried and went through a variety of phases as we reached different stages of life. Today, we are both in our 30s and share a very close, sometimes exasperating, unconditionally loving relationship. My hope in starting this blog is to create a place for the siblings of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to share information, resources, support and stories so that they may play a positive role in the lives of their siblings and families -- while enjoying their own lives to the fullest. The holidays are about family. I cannot think of a better time to celebrate siblings and the unique bonds we share.