If I recall correctly, during Gov. Palin's address to the GOP convention she mentioned being an "advocate" for the people of this nation who have special needs and those who care from them.  I was kind of surprised by that, although I know Gov. Palin has a beautiful young son who has special needs.  Why this struck me was maybe because I do not remember ever hearing such a thing in a political speech.  I have recently had my first exposure to the Child Welfare System here in Ohio.  My wife and I are proudly becoming foster parents.  In doing so there is a certain amount of training that is necessary.  During this training, I learned a lot about children with special needs.  I have always had a soft spot for the truly disadvantaged people of our world, now that has grown even larger.  However, the picture is bigger that just those who are afflicted, it is also a life of challenges for the caretakers of these special people.

 

    I can recall seeing older adults in the market or just in public, tending to their adult children.  I always felt a sadness, for all involved.  I certainly imagine they never expected to be in this position and undoubtedly the children would rather not be in the situation. The fact of the matter is that there are certainly more persons with special needs and caregivers than ever before.  So when I heard Gov Palin made that statement I was impressed.  It is about time that such an important segment of the American people have an advocate in the White House.  It seems to me that the McCain ticket really has a desire to serve all Americans, not just the ones who vote.