HopeLives Format: TradePaperback

HOPE AND ENCOURAGEMENT—that’s what this book is offering. If the reader has a special needs child, they likely struggle with guilt, fear, disappointment, anger, depression, anxiety, panic—a host of emotions. This book, through the telling of Tim and Marie Kuck's son, Nahaniel's story will offer the reader the space to breathe, to be assured that it will be OK, they can make it, they are not alone and there is not only hope but even JOY that can be found in the midst of the sadness and pain. The Kucks hope that their inspirational story will bring encouragement and life to others. This book is written by a family that had a child with very special needs. Their son, Nathaniel Timothy Kuck, was born prematurely with multiple birth anomalies. Through their personal experience with their son, they saw first-hand how demanding it can be to raise a child with special needs. Despite spending the next four and a half years in hospitals, with Nathaniel undergoing surgeries, therapies and many challenges, the Kucks were able to see that to each life there is value and purpose. What may appear to be imperfect in the eyes of humans really is perfect in the sight of God. Although the Kucks lost their son, they are committed to helping other families to care for their VIP Kids and educating communities about how these families can be Buddies.

Tim and Marie Kuck co-founded the national nonprofit, Nathaniel’s Hope, with the goal of celebrating kids with all types of special needs (VIP kids) while supporting and advocating for these families. Their inspiration was their beloved son, Nathaniel, “a treasured gift from God”who was born with multiple special needs. Their personal experience in walking Nathaniel’s life journey created a heartfelt passion to help others facing similar challenges. Marie speaks and advocates on behalf of VIP families in her role as Executive Director of Nathaniel’s Hope. Nathaniel’s Hope educates and equips local communities and churches through multiple outreach initiatives. Its national Buddy Break network provides free respite care to give families of VIP kids a break. www.nathanielshope.org