If your child or the child of someone you know struggles with a life-threatening or chronic illness, then you know how all-consuming such circumstances are. There's no such thing as having a “normal life,” only a relentless and often lonely roller-coaster of giddy hope, stark fear, blessed victories, and shattering defeats—and constant prayer.

Jolene Philo knows how it is because she and her husband have traveled that road with their own son. In A Different Dream for My Child, Jolene shares frank, heartfelt meditations to build your faith and hope. You won't find trite, easy words. You will find rare understanding, refreshing honesty, and a wise spiritual companion to walk with you through the highs and lows that only the parents of chronically ill children can know.

"The examples of comfort and shared experience will benefit all who read this book. Chronic sorrow follows chronic disease, and the reflections offered are excellent in addressing this. Every problem discussed is 'right on' and pulls out personal recollections of many of my patients. I would recommend it to families and caretakers alike." ~David H. Van Dyke MD, Pediatric Neurologist

"A Different Dream for My Child offers the right words for those painful moments when everything seems wrong. The author’s personal stories create common ground with readers; her prayers express what grieving parents feel but can’t always articulate; her reflective postscripts nudge readers to move past the 'now' and onto the 'what’s next?' Philo’s book is like a gentle balm prescribed for persons bruised and battered by circumstances." ~Holly G. Miller, The Saturday Evening Post

Jolene Philo has been a teacher for 25 years and has published numerous articles on parenting a special needs child and preparing children for a hospital stay. She is a regular contributor to a regional monthly women's magazine, has spoken to MOPS groups, and is a commentator of Iowa Public Radio's "Iowa Voices."