As National Siblings Day was recognized earlier this month, we have been thinking of the many wonderful brother and sister groupings in our JJMF community – and there sure are a lot of cute ones!

JJMF community mom, Annie Harper, posed the following important question that so many parents with medically complex children think about as their family dynamic changes through different life stages. 

Who’s your sibling? It’s one of the few relationships in life that’s beyond anyone’s control. Brother or sister, younger or older, shorter or taller, favorite hobby and sports activity – such traits are seldom the same, regardless of the parent or the household. But what if your sibling is unique and has a complex medical condition?

Annie answered the question as she sees it apply to her three sons, including 3-year old Joe who has a medically complex, neurological condition.

Annie shared, “Everyone is different, but in some ways, we’re the same. George, Mac, and Joe Harper each have their own identity and interest, but they love reading books, playing outside, sometimes watching the same cartoons, or laughing at each other’s jokes. They’re distinctly different but the epitome of siblings.”

George, Mac & Joe

Hearing Annie’s thoughts about her trio of boys got us thinking about the variety of ways siblings connect, especially when one of them has a medically complex, neurological condition, so we asked a few more JJMF community families to tell us about their special sibling relationships. We’re happy to share these endearing accounts of incredible bonds between siblings and the impact they have through their connections.

First, JJMF’s Executive Director, Genny Jessee, shared about the unique ways June is connected with her two younger brothers, George and Peter.

George was nearly eight months old when June died, but I will always remember the special bond they shared. The first time June touched her brother and heard his coos, she smiled so brightly. From there on out she was always reaching and searching for him. We used to laugh because June would fuss if we gently moved her or disturbed her in some way, but George could stick a finger in her mouth or nose or grab her hair and she would just smile and giggle at him. Even though Peter and June never met, I feel the connection with them too. I like to think that she sent Peter to us, and their resemblance is uncanny. I am so grateful to see bits of June in both of her brothers. I know she is so proud of them.  – Genny Jessee

June & George

Next, JJMF community mom Jennifer Dusenberry shared about her children’s favorite activities to partake in together and how each of their relationships positively affect their brother Mason, who has a medically complex, neurological condition.

Mason’s siblings include a sister, Anna Cate (4), and a big brother, Micah (15). Anna Cate says her favorite activity with Mason is blowing bubbles together, and that is definitely one of his all-time favorites as well. Micah likes to join in to help Mason with his “bingo dotter” art play and any of his fun science experiments. Micah and Mason have had a special bond ever since Mason was born – Micah has helped Mason adjust and adapt to a world that is very hard for him. Anna Cate motivates him to try new experiences too and he loves being around her. He especially loves going places with his whole family because it means we are usually headed somewhere fun and not the doctor. They love each other very much and are so thankful they have each other. – Jennifer Dusenberry

Mason, Anna Cate & Micah

And lastly, JJMF community mom Courtney Woods told about the joy that her sons’ relationship brings to each of them. 

Landon and Everett have a special bond. When Landon hears his big brother’s voice, he lights up with the biggest smile and kicks his feet with excitement. Everett is so helpful with Landon and he loves to read books to him, play with his light up toys and push his stroller. They both love listening to music, going for walks and spending time outside together!  – Courtney Woods

Landon & Everett

It’s certainly evident through the special stories shared by each of these families that siblings’ relationships have an incredible influence in their lives. The ways in which children with medically complex, neurological conditions connect with their brothers and sisters may be unique, but in all cases, the bonds they create and the experiences they share are extraordinary.