Beth Shiau
Respite Services Participant

Beth Shiau was introduced to The Arc Montgomery County’s Respite Services by nurses who helped care for her premature twin boys. The boys were born more than three months early and was given very low chances of survival.

Beth spent the next four months visiting her boys daily in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), constantly worrying that a brain bleed or infection would end their young lives. Finally, the boys grew healthy enough to leave the hospital, but they still needed oxygen and monitors and James had to continue using a feeding tube.

While Beth was elated to have her boys at home, the worrying continued and caring for the twins was like being at work around the clock.  She needed a break, if only just a few hours to sleep! Beth turned to The Arc's Respite Services, which helped her immensely when the twins were young.  Today, Beth continues to utilize Respite Services as her 5-year-old boys face their developmental challenges. The support services allow her to re-energize and be a better mother to James and Daniel.