Norma Lee
Normally one wouldn't conquer life in such an extraordinary way.
by
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This book spans 6 decades of progress toward the disabled in the fast growing city of Mesa, Arizona. It demonstrates and identifies the numerous struggles families with special needs encounter on a daily basis. Circumstances may differ, disabilities vary greatly, reactions can change but the same story line runs throughout.
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About the Book
This book was written based on my mother’s numerous journals, diaries, letters, photos, tapes and many artifacts saved over decades. It is also based on memories, conversations/ situations according to myself and the recollection of other family members as well as a few friends. It might not be the opinion or recollection of all involved.
About the Author
Debbie Drayton earned a degree in Special/Elementary Education from Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University. She has a Masters in Early Childhood Education from NAU as well. Debbie married Jeff in 1978 and when raising their young children, they took on the task of becoming houseparents’ in a Children’s home; taking care of teenage boys in Mesa Arizona. When their son and daughter turned school age, the family moved to a different location and Debbie worked at a Montessori school part time as she continued her education. A few years later she entered the public school setting as a teacher in the elementary schools. Over the next 23 years, she taught children with special needs, second and first graders. Her and Jeff raised their children in a mountain town and besides investing in their careers and family, spent hours volunteering at a local church. Debbie has a passion for teaching children and as a hobby directed plays and skits at the church in which the family attended. Recently she collaborated with a few other women and starting a Special Needs ministry at this same location. She is now a grandmother of seven.