About
Donna Miller writes nonfiction and memoir, tackling issues confronting children and their families struggling with learning and emotional disabilities. Advocating for children affected by physical abuse and emotional neglect, and working to improve life outcomes for children living with mental health and behavioral issues, Donna has spent decades gaining the support of parents and policymakers committed to giving children the chance they deserve to thrive. Following a 12-year stint as the primary speech writer for a popular New York State First Lady, Donna took her experience both in and outside of government to elevate the discussion about children and families in our challenging world. Championing policies that reflect the changing needs and social dynamics of an evolving society, Donna has dedicated her energies to crafting workable strategies for teachers and parents struggling to support what she calls “quirky” kids; work that became intensely personal as she moved through the journey from advocate to parent.
My Story
A faculty member at various arts and educational institutions teaching non-fiction and memoir writing, Donna’s classes were always oversubscribed. She has served as an Executive Board Member for Wildwood School, a nationally recognized educational program for children with neurological disorders. Educational materials she developed for people living with brain injury have been distributed to thousands of schools and families.
Recent work promoting the magic of memoir resulted in a ground breaking program for adults diagnosed with early stage Alzheimer’s disease who are determined to write their memories while they still have access to their life experiences. She has described this experience simply: “This class has changed my life by giving me the opportunity to witness the grace and courage of these extraordinary people facing the fate that robs them of their dignity and memory.”
Donna is a popular and entertaining speaker.
Resources
So, we may already know a lot about each other. Here’s something else about me: I began this revolution by writing the book Mad Random: Claiming Life Out of Chaos. I know about the child who is wired for sound and motion but can’t master the dance of school, civil behavior or a happy social life. I know because I raised that child. I was guilty, exhausted and without hope. I was sure no one understood what went on in my home and there wasn’t anyone who had a clue how to help us. One day I decided I’d had ENOUGH.
I shared our story for you and your family, with a full appreciation and respect for the job you do every day. But more importantly, this memoir was the first step in discovering my passion to help you power through the despair of chaotic kids and broken families.
You are not alone and I can help. No, I am not a therapist. I am parent, just like you. I’ve spent years sorting out the practical tools, new resources and the ever-changing opportunities to advocate for our kids.
I will be sharing everything I’ve learned and that I keep learning. We will do this together. I promise this will always be a place of understanding, guidance, humor and community.
