Butterflies and Second Chances
Annette Hines
The world Annette Hines knew exploded when her infant daughter Elizabeth was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease—a degenerative, life-limiting illness. Annette’s joy quickly turned to apprehension and she knew nothing would ever be the same again.
Butterflies and Second Chances is the inspiring true story of a mother’s special needs journey, and her struggle to secure the best possible life for her child in the face of bureaucratic resistance and marital crisis. It is a story of sacrifice, dedication, and the life-altering adjustments a special needs parent has to make when confronted with the unthinkable. But most of all, it’s about love and an extraordinary mother-daughter relationship that flourished without words in the darkest shadows of adversity.
Annette and Elizabeth’s powerful story provides hope, solace, and a path forward for parents of special needs children, and it will resonate with families everywhere.
Press & Praise
"Much of my learning in my work has come from families and the stories they have shared with me. Annette's story of caring and loss will help you in your journey, whether family or friend."
"This true story is raw, challenging, and ultimately joyous. It is the story of the circle of life and the buoyancy of one amazing mother's spirit in the face of insurmountable challenges. I did not want the book to end--it left me wanting to know what happens next in the lives of Annette and her family."
"Annette's unique and caring ability to provide her personal story is inspiring and inspirational, told not only as a mother, but also as an advocate for persons with special needs."
