When Parents Can't Fix It: Living with a Child's Disability

This moving documentary takes an intimate look at the lives of five families who are raising children with disabilities: focusing on the problems they faced, how they learned to cope, and the rewards and stresses of adapting to their children's conditions. We are introduced to 16-year-old Matt, who must be picked up to get from his wheelchair to his bed; to Eli, whose father explains that his son's disabilities need so much attention that he and his wife's lives are almost monastic; to Nathan, whose mother tells us she actually felt her heart break when his cerebral palsy was diagnosed; to Red Fawn, whose violent outbursts can be traced to fetal alcohol syndrome; and to Blayre, whose multiple disabilities contributed to her parents' divorce. All participants are straightforward and well spoken, and articulately convey their frustrations and joys. Sources of assistance and information are given in the inside cover and at the tape's end. Recommended for collections that can afford the inexplicably high price tag. Aud: P. (K. Glaser)