"If you are a parent, teacher or caregiver of a neuro-diverse kiddo, this book is a must read! It's full of medical explanations and support system references that will inform you, plus real-life stories that will inspire you. Thanks to Layla and Abi for sharing their story of tragedy and triumph."

Karen’s Foreword written for the book Saving Abigail Slater:

I was honored when Layla asked me to contribute to this publication about their family’s experiences and lessons learned throughout Abi’s difficult medical and educational journey. Layla’s book will be an inspiring and valuable resource for all parents whose children encounter medical and educational challenges.

When I first met the Slater family, I had been a school psychologist since 1977 with experiences including consultation and diagnostic responsibilities in public and parochial schools and in a research project studying the cognitive development of children who had been in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in a local children’s hospital.

The combination of these experiences led to my appreciation of the plasticity and adaptability of a young child’s brain and the value of early interventions. My involvement with Abi’s education definitely solidified this conviction. I vividly remember the day Layla and Brian walked into the conference room for their first of many meetings with our special education team at Abi’s elementary school. They bravely but anxiously smiled, graciously greeted all the members of our group, sat down at the table, and we began the discussion and the process that would provide Abi with the support and the resources she would need.

My impressions from that first meeting were confirmed throughout the many years we worked together. First, Layla and Brian were always very well prepared and knowledgeable about Abi’s fluctuating and sometimes terrifying medical challenges. They were realistic but also optimistic about Abi’s possible outcomes. Second, as important members of the team, Layla and Brian understood the value of a cooperative working relationship with the school staff. Their well-informed contributions and opinions provided our team with direction and support. Finally, while Abi’s amazing success has been the result of her own perseverance, confidence, and positivity, these traits were modeled and encouraged by her parents. There is no substitute for the love, faith, devotion, and advocacy of parents.

Saving Abigail Grace will take the reader on a roller coaster ride of Abi’s early years and will provide insight, valuable resources, and hope for all. Spoiler alert: there is a happy ending!