When Finding Dory was released, both children and adults were swimming with joy (pun may or may not be intended). It was a movie that was 12 years anticipated. With all the laughs Dory and her old and new friends alike inspired, there seemed to be an underlying message through the film that I couldn't quite place my finger on. It wasn't until my cousin spoke with me that it came to the forefront of my mind: Finding Dory is a resounding message of hope and perseverance for special needs parents.

Even though Dory's memory problems were humorous at times, it posed as a serious issue to her safety as a child. Her parents repeated and repeated and repeated phrases about how to not get swept up in the undertow and how to find them if she ever got lost--just follow the shells--, but yet, they still worried about her future and if she would remember the things they taught her.

This repetition reminded me of my little cousin, Lauryn, and her mother, mentioned previously. Lauryn has William's Syndrome, and constantly has to be reminded by her mother of what not to do around strangers, what to remember when she uses the bathroom, and things of that nature. Like Dory's parents, Lauryn's parents and the parents of other special needs children worry about their children's wellbeing and how they will fair in the world without their constant guidance.

In the movie, Dory's parents' worst fear becomes a reality, which is something startling to parents who relate so much to Dory's family. Dory gets separated from her parents and can't remember anything to help get her home. Though Dory manages to find loving friends in this separation, she realizes something is missing. She remembers bits and pieces of memories, and it is enough to inspire a cross-ocean journey to find her family.

Meeting various other symbols of health related issues--such as an octopus with a missing leg, a whale with vision issues, and another whale with echo-location issues--she manages to find her way home. And, spoiler alert, her parents were waiting for her the whole time.

Dory is a wonderful example of hope come to fruition in a special needs home. She is able to use the lessons her parents have instilled in her to ultimately accomplish something wonderful. This is such an inspiration to families facing similar adversities, knowing that their children will make them proud, whatever the feat or accomplishment. Finding Dory recognizes the hard work these parents put in to raising their special needs child. It reassures them to not give up on their child, that things will turn out right in the end.