Struggling with parental guilt as I wonder if I did enough for my son
With my youngest son, Caeleb, graduating from high school this Saturday, I can’t help but ask, “Did I do enough…
Articles by Joe MacDonald
A Bible presentation ceremony for graduates leads to happy tears
Every year at the First United Methodist Church of Belen, New Mexico, where I serve as pastor, I…
My son must face reality as he deals with his health insurance company
I walked into my home and heard my oldest son, Julian, having a heated conversation over the phone. He hung…
Looking back at how we got here reminds me of my family’s strength
“Merrily We Roll Along” is my new favorite musical. The plot of this Stephen Sondheim show centers on…
Watching my son as he sings makes my heart smile
When my oldest son, Julian, moved back home, he knew that I, in my Methodist minister role, needed a couple…
Times of transition bring anxiety for those with bleeding disorders
My house is in a state of chaos. Julian, my oldest son, leaves for a summer job in the Appalachian…
How becoming an empty nester will change my role as a caregiver
Almost 27 years ago, I received the title of caregiver when my first son, Julian, was born. Not realizing…
Traveling east with a theater contract and hemophilia treatments
Last Friday started like any other day. I felt excited that I’d survived my first week back at work after…
Even hemophilia can’t spoil sacred time with my son
After I had spent a few days lobbying legislators in Washington, D.C., my youngest son, Caeleb, joined me for…
The joy of lobbying the Senate on behalf of my sons with hemophilia
Last Thursday, I visited Washington, D.C., to join my fellow blood brothers and sisters in lobbying legislators regarding issues…