When I was 5 years old, my sister’s trachea collapsed and she was rushed to the emergency room.

She was 3 at the time and was with my father at our house while my mother and I went for our nightly walk. When we returned my dad was frantic. He had called 911 and shortly after our return they arrived and took my sister to the emergency room. After all of her operations had been done and she had fully recovered, my family discovered that she was mentally disabled. This was the result of her trachea collapsing and cutting off the supply of oxygen to her brain.

My sister’s name is Diane and she has taught me more about life than I ever could have imagined. Growing up these lessons were lost on me. I was confused and frustrated by the extra responsibilities I had been given. I had no idea that these responsibilities were teaching me patience, maturity and open-mindedness.

Growing up with a mentally disabled sibling is very demanding. I had to babysit Diane whenever my parents worked, work with her to learn and remain patient with her through the learning process. The extra effort required by me did not even begin to compare to the virtues that Diane has instilled in me and the bond that we share as siblings.

While having a mentally disabled sibling can be anything but easy and may even seem overwhelming at times, it is far from a burden. If you are out there struggling with having disabled sibling, breathe. Remember that, regardless of the situation, your brother or sister is a blessing. They are there to teach you and help you grow. Your life may be more difficult, but it will make you a stronger person and help you forge a relationship that few ever experience. Even if your sibling is not disabled, take time to appreciate them and be thankful for their health as well as yours.

Whatever your situation, you can be sure that there is something to be learned from it.