Allegra Means Joy

All the money and privilege in the world couldn’t take the sting out of the countless times Anne Ford was told, “She doesn’t belong here,” in regards to her special needs daughter, Allegra.

Horrified by the conditions of the special needs schools available at the time, Anne Ford, the great-granddaughter of Henry Ford, struggled to accept the realities of what severe leaning disabilities would mean for Allegra. “The worst thing I did was I went into denial. You know, I just didn’t want to accept anything,” she explains with admirable candor and honesty on this week’s episode.

“I hung up the phone and thought, ‘Oh my, what am I going to do?’ I had no idea what to do.” Anne shares the desperation she experienced that is all too familiar for families of disabled children. Even with seemingly unlimited resources at her disposal, Anne felt at a loss as to how to help Allegra.

However, Anne was not content to accept the stigma surrounding learning disabilities. She has spent years fighting the status quo and bringing to light the trials and tribulations which special needs children and their families face.

This week Anne bravely shares the story of her strength as a mother, passionate advocate for people with learning disabilities, and acclaimed author on the subject of special needs children. She offers hope to others going through the anguish and confusion surrounding special needs, and, ultimately, reminds us of the joy that can be found in even daunting situations.

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