A touching note from Judy O'Halloran, who helps add context to what it means to be the parent of a child with special needs:

"To the families of special needs children, I pledge to you that if we're elected, you will have a friend and advocate in the White House," - Governor Sarah Palin

While millions of us continue to be excited by Governor Palin's pledge, I have also been reflecting on another statement she made: "Children with special needs inspire a very, very special love."

I know what Governor Palin means. I have three sons, each of whom I love with a very special love. Casey, 27, has Down syndrome, and thus has inspired that very, very special love--the more resilient, more appreciative one that comes with a few extra job descriptions.

One of those "extras" was to challenge our school district's policy of segregating students with disabilities. It gave us the courage, energy, and perseverance to have Casey educated in inclusive settings from kindergarten through high school.

After graduation, we thought our troubles would be over. But this very, very special love sustained us through the realization that school was practically Nirvana compared to understanding, navigating, and accessing services in the adult world. It continues to give us the strength and faith to create individualized settings to optimize Casey's independence in his home, community, and workplace.

Casey has played on a "regular" Basketball team; become an altar server; served as a high school class representative, his junior and senior year; and achieved Eagle, the highest rank in Boy Scouts. He works as a clerical assistant at the Lee County Florida Justice Center; advocates locally and nationally on behalf of individuals with disabilities; and is a member of the President's Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities.

Yes, this very, very special love is a powerful force. So, the possibility of "Sarah Barracuda" with this love in the White House fills me with excitement and confidence that a Vice President Palin will immediately be a powerful voice for the 56 million citizens with disabilities and their families.