Graduation day is a milestone not just for students, but for their families as well. I remember clearly when Laura started pre-school to crying as the bus pulled away for the first day of Kindergarten. All the nights of homework, school clothes, conferences, school parties, report cards, tests, plays, late night studying, friends, peer pressure, lunches, parties, field trips , and achievements burn in my memory. I made it burn in my memories because I knew high school graduation would come. I knew Laura would not stay in the area, but she would spread her wings. She spread them a…
Author: Jessica Grono
Jessica Grono
Jessica Grono is a special education teacher, public speaker and writer. She is former Ms. Wheelchair Pennsylvania. She plays goalie for Philadelphia Flyers PowerPlay! Jessica is happily married with two children. She has cerebral palsy.
Electing a Pope is one of the most fascinating and sacred rituals in the Catholic Church, filled with centuries-old traditions, secrecy, and profound spiritual significance. Everyone has a different outlook and idea on what a Pope should be. I like a pro-life, gentle, conservative Pope. St. John Paul II is my favorite, but irreplaceable. A Pope is a person Catholics look toward for guidance. Peter was our first Pope when Jesus told Him Peter was the rock of the Church. Finding a new Pope takes a lot of patience and prayer from all of us. We want God’s will be…
For many, Good Friday carries a solemn tone—marked by reflection, fasting, and remembrance. As a kid, I didn’t understand the correlation between good and crucifying an innocent man. How is any of that good or make any sense? I remember learning that between the hours of noon to three in the afternoon are the hours we express sorrow that Jesus was crucified. I try to be silent in remembrance of Jesus Christ dying. Good Friday is the day Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, a moment of immense suffering and sacrifice. But despite its sorrowful nature, Good Friday is…
Angel Studios’ The King of Kings is an ambitious animated retelling of the life of Jesus Christ, framed through the lens of Charles Dickens narrating the story to his son. Directed by Seong-ho Jang, the film blends biblical storytelling with a creative narrative structure inspired by Dickens’ lesser-known work, The Life of Our Lord. I raised my children to believe in Jesus and Catholicism. I can’t tell you enough how many miracles that I have experienced. My ability to be present writing this blog is a miracle in itself because I was practically dead at birth. Jesus lives all around…
Last Sunday I had the bittersweet honor of taking Laura to Lycoming, a small yet picturesque college nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania. Many colleges have acceptance day for incoming students. So, we loaded up the van and were on an almost 3 hour drive on a rainy foggy morning. Luckily, I had a friend who could come and get me dressed to help us get on the road quicker. I am grateful for all of my friends who are willing to help me get ready. Laura earned an academic scholarship to assist paying for her college. Laura has worked…
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), observed annually on March 21, is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about Down syndrome, advocating for the rights of individuals with this genetic condition, and celebrating the unique contributions they bring to our lives and communities. This date, 3/21, symbolizes the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome. Beyond the statistics and science, World Down Syndrome Day is a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and humanity. It’s a call to action for everyone to create a more inclusive world. Understanding Down Syndrome Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the…
Every year on March 19th, St. Joseph’s DaySt. Joseph’s Day: A Celebration of Faith, Culture, and Gratitude offers a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration for millions of people, particularly in Catholic communities. St. Joseph, the husband of the Virgin Mary and earthly father of Jesus Christ, is honored for his unwavering faith, humility, and dedication. A Feast Rooted in History St. Joseph’s Day has its origins in the Middle Ages, when people in Sicily turned to St. Joseph in prayer during a devastating famine. Legend has it that their prayers were answered with rain, leading to a bountiful harvest.…
Stepping into the shoes of a long-term substitute teacher is no small feat. The timing wasn’t quite what I had expected. Some things were going on at home which had me step down from my role as a building substitute teacher. Then, I received an unexpected email asking if I’d consider the role as a long term sub in a special education life skills room. It’s a role that demands adaptability, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose. I had to think about it, and I accepted the job. It seemed like God put the job into my path at…
Life, as wonderful as it can be, throws challenges our way—sometimes minor inconveniences and other times monumental obstacles. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or even beaten down. I don’t like feeling sorry for myself. The feeling stinks actually. Feeling sorry for myself makes me feel like I fell into a black hole and struggle to pull myself out of it. But dwelling in self-pity? That’s a place where growth and resilience go to wither. Not feeling sorry for yourself isn’t about denying your emotions; it’s about reclaiming your power and taking charge of your narrative. I want to reclaim my…
Aspiring to live a life that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ is a noble and transformative journey. During Lent, we cannot just do what we normally do. We need to dig deep and meet Jesus at the desert. What are you willing to give up to be more like Jesus? Regardless of your religious beliefs, the principles that Jesus espoused can inspire a life of compassion, humility, and love. In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways to embody these virtues and live a life that mirrors the example set by Jesus. The goal for us is to be more…