Down Right Joy

Real life stories of joy and fun reflections about raising a special needs child that are meant to encourage special needs parents . Told from a Christian perspective, yet some stories are "almost PG", Also includes information and specific actions regarding exercise and expectations for your special needs child.

The book is a series of short stories, each recounts a real life event in the life of our son Jake D'Orazio. Beginning with how wife Karen and I met and continuing with Jake's birth and life experiences, each chapter has a short Bible verse at the end followed by a reflection and sometimes a call for a change in thinking or call to action. There are various pictures of Jake and many members of our extended family. The book considers parents thinking of their specail needs child as gifts, even though there are challenges. Parents are encouraged to have high expectations for their children and help them achieve goals. Parents strongly are encouraged to start movement and exercise with their children at a very young age and create a home atmosphere and environment of activity and exercise.

Tony D'Orazio Bio • Graduate of Ohio Northern University. • 5 years as child care worker, head cottage parent, case manager and program Co Director at Parmadale St. Anthony's Home, worked with disadvantaged and challenged adolescent boys. • Successful 25-year business career as major account executive for national disability and workers compensation organization. • Founded Jacob's Ladder Special Needs Fitness in 2011 to provide much needed exercise for those with special needs. • Became follower of Jesus from strong Christian family and Billy Graham event. • Named to Who's Who for college students. • Semi Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee. • Live in Strongsville Ohio with wife Karen and son Jake. • Have older son Ray and daughter Jessica.