Hey There!
Welcome to
The Gateway Community and Sibling Support Group
About Our Community
We are a sibling support group for people who have siblings with disabilities. We often overlook the challenges a person with a siblings with disabilities goes through, we aren’t able to recognise the complexes they go through because we are so focused on the child with special needs.
Recognize Their Feelings: Siblings of individuals with disabilities often experience a wide range of emotions, including guilt, resentment, confusion, and even jealousy. These feelings can be complex and difficult to express, especially when the focus is primarily on the child with special needs. Encourage open and non-judgmental discussions within the support group to help these individuals recognize and process their emotions.
Empowerment Through Sharing: Provide a safe space for siblings to share their stories and experiences. This can help them realize that they are not alone in their feelings and challenges. Sharing experiences can also lead to valuable insights and coping strategies among group members.
Education and Awareness: Siblings may not fully understand their sibling's disability or the impact it has on their family until they are educated about it. Consider organizing workshops or inviting experts to provide information and resources about various disabilities, therapies, and support networks available. This can help siblings better understand their sibling's needs and the family dynamic.
Encourage Individuality: Siblings with brothers or sisters with disabilities often find themselves in caregiving roles or taking on additional responsibilities. It's essential to emphasize the importance of their own individuality and needs. Encourage them to pursue their interests, hobbies, and goals outside of their family responsibilities.
Personal Story
"Veer Kanungo Bodani"
“My purpose, Yuvraj. My older brother, Yuvraj, was diagnosed with epilepsy, cerebral palsy, global delays, and intellectually disabled when he was just two years old. Six years later, I was born into a world where the status quo of the majority was not our reality. In my early youth, I asked my mother why Yuvraj was different, and she said, 'Different is what makes us special.' Yuvraj became a blessing to me after that. His numerous meltdowns indicated the enormous obstacles he faced in comparison to me. I used to be completely unaware of his difficulties, preoccupied with my own. This programme attempts to assist people in healing from trauma, discovering the positive in every negative situation, and appreciating their siblings for who they are. Life's beauty unfolds when we open our hearts, just like Yuvraj taught me, allowing us to view the beautiful world that we might otherwise miss."
Vision
The Gateway Community and Sibling Support Group envisions a world where siblings of individuals with disabilities are empowered to support their families and themselves. Our vision includes the following:
To provide siblings of individuals with disabilities the tools and resources they need to advocate for their brothers and sisters and support their families. To foster a community of support and understanding for siblings of individuals with special needs. To recognize the unique challenges that siblings of individuals with disabilities face and provide them with the support they need to thrive. To empower siblings to build their own lives and pursue their own goals while supporting their families and siblings. To promote awareness and understanding of the experiences of siblings of individuals with disabilities and advocate for their needs. Our vision is rooted in the belief that every individual, regardless of ability, deserves to be supported and valued. We believe that by empowering siblings of individuals with disabilities, we can create a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.