Seventy percent of families with a chronically ill child are "stronger because of their child's condition," and eighty percent have "benefited in some way from having a child with chronic illness."

So reports a study interviewing 190 mothers of chronically ill children. The children, aged 7 to 12, have sickle cell anemia, diabetes, cystic fibrosis or moderate to severe asthma.

Mothers said they have learned:

• better parenting skills
• greater self-awareness
• increased awareness of family members' needs
• greater sensitivity and tolerance
• confidence
• emotional stability
  

Ambulatory Pediatrics;1:104-107, 2001

Comment by David Stevens, M.D.
(Christian Medical Association Executive Director):

The perspectives of the parents who found nothing positive in their child's illness may have more to do with themselves as parents than with the child's circumstances.

Dealing with a chronic illness in your child quickly boils away the dross to reveal the depth of character, coping skills and selflessness in a parent's heart. The situation can seem overwhelming.

I suspect that those who cope and learn the most have strong faith and support groups around them. This study also shows the positive benefits that can be drawn from suffering. No one should seek suffering, but it can draw people closer to God, closer to each other and reorder life for the better.

When you have affliction in your life, remember, "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." (2 Corinthians 4:17)