The Adolescent Journey
There are moments in life that don’t go exactly to plan, and raising a teenager is one of them. When your child lives with a disability, it can be extra challenging.
This is the story of Julie Fisher and her family as they navigate the adolescent years with their son Darcy who lives with Down syndrome.
Throughout this book, she shares the things they’ve learned, and the steps they’ve taken to support Darcy as he grows.
Watching our kids step into independence is both exciting and overwhelming. Some days are easy, others are hard. But rather than focusing on the struggles, Julie’s family choose to embrace the beauty in every stage.
From finding the right resources to preparing for the future, every decision they make is about helping their son thrive and shine.
By sharing their journey, Julie hopes she can help others feel less alone and more prepared. Every teenager is different, and every family’s path is unique, but one thing remains the same. They all deserve to be supported, valued and given the best chance to thrive.
Having a child with Down syndrome is like taking the scenic route. You still get where you are going. It may take a little longer, but it will be well worth the trip!
What Readers are Saying
★★★★★
“I loved the stories in this book and can’t pick a favourite as they all made my heart ache and sing in different ways. I’m actually going to read it again.”
★★★★★
“Some of these stories will make you cry, and some will fill you with rage, but all of them, ALL OF THEM, will lift you to the joyful heights of humans at their very best.
This will probably make you cry again but the insights and understanding these stories bring, are totally worth the tissues. Just beautiful.”
EXPLORE julie’s other books
More Stories That Reframe Disability and Inclusion
The Unexpected Journey
A deeply personal story of love, resilience, and reimagining what disability means, told through the lived experience of one family’s unexpected journey.
The Magic of Inclusion
Award-winning practical guide to building inclusion that moves beyond compliance into connection.
ⓒ 2026 Julie Fisher. All Rights Reserved.