CUTV News Spotlights Harriet Redman of WisconSibs

APPLETON, WI -- Harriet raised a son born in 1992 with a rare chromosomal abnormality that affected his ability to meet many developmental milestones. Harriet and her family includes older sibling Christiana. One day, Christiana vocalized, “What will happen one day when you and Daddy die?”

It’s a question many siblings of special needs kids will have, but fear to express. It led to the founding of the non-profit organization WisconSibs. This noteworthy organization has continued to grow and provide the circle of support that is so vital to the siblings of children diagnosed with conditions. When a child has a mental, medical, genetic or developmental diagnosis, it disrupts the family. Siblings, although they love to help, can experience guilt or short-term resentment. With the support of an organization like WisconSibs, siblings learn to develop resiliency, natural leadership skills, and coping strategies. They realize most importantly, they are not the only ones in this crazy position, and that’s utterly empowering.

WisconSibs provides many different programs that help children ages 6 to 12 as both siblings grow into adults. One of those programs is Sibshop. They also run summer camp programs, both day and sleepover, where siblings discuss concerns and joys while having fun, engaging in recreation, and getting the respite time that is important to everyone in the family. WisconSibs also engages families in activities that help create awareness or raise funds.

We salute her for her brave efforts and look forward to learning all she has to share--including how motivated people can donate to this wonderful non-profit!

If you would like more information about WisconSibs please visit https://www.wisconsibs.org