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My Good Life

Eraina Ferguson

My Good Life is the story of one woman's process of learning to live the good life despite the challenges of raising a special needs child.

  Biography & Memoir    Special Needs Children   80,000 words   75% complete   Published by Elm Hill
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$4,157.00 funded

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Synopsis

My Good Life is a memoir about how I found the good in my daily life despite my circumstances. As the parent of a special needs child, this book appeals to the special needs parenting market. It highlights the issues related to the countless challenges we face in our daily lives, while also celebrating some of our good experiences. 

I wrote this book because I wanted to share both the beautiful and challenging experiences that shaped our lives. Our message is unique because it details the span of 7 years, 3 cities, and 3 academic institutions, including Yale. Readers will use this book to help themselves grasp the good in their lives. 

This book will connect with parents of special needs children and those who love them. It will help them understand, that our life isn’t normal, but it’s good.


Outline

1. Naked: This chapter recounts an experience that occurred during my time at Yale. It was a pivotal event in our lives that brought things full circle. (See Sample Chapter)

2. Born Again: Having a child at 20 years old was not easy. From the time of her birth, Taylor Gabriel was special. Her birth altered my life completely, and taught me a new normal.

3. Orphan: It wasn't until my parents moved away to Florida that my life changed forever. During that season of my life I depended greatly on my paternal grandmother for emotional support while raising my special needs daughter Taylor. 

4. Concrete: Left in a city alone, I entered an abusive relationship, which changed how I viewed love, family, commitment, and safety. This chapter discusses how I eventually overcame these challenges in order to graduate from college. 

5. Escape: After graduating from college, I applyed to Teach for America and was rejected. Instead of giving up, I applied to NYC Teaching Fellows. I was accepted and moved to New York City with $1000 and my daughter Taylor to start a new life. 

6.  Apple Picking: Being a single mom was a vulnerable season for me. We had a number of adventures while living in Brooklyn, NY and Boston. This chapter discusses those adventures, including what dating was like as a single parent. It emphasizes how every decision that I made needed to be deliberate and precise, just like my favorite New England pastime: apple picking. 

7.  Privileges: I've always wanted to attend Yale University. After gaining acceptance into a graduate program in religion, we gained access to a whole new world of opportunity. This chapter discusses those experiences, and how I adapted to my newly discovered privilege. 

8.  Love: After dating off and on for 12 years, I finally found love. I embraced it, enjoyed the good, and let it restore everything that I thought I'd lost forever: family. 

9. Home: After living away from Chicago for 13 years, I moved back to date and marry my husband. This chapter addresses the benefits and perils of returning home after almost a decade.  When nothing else would help, love lifted me.

10. Ever After: After getting married, I became aware of the beauty of partnership and the new dynamics of family. I also discovered new things as a wife and mother of two more children. Raising a child with special needs and building a family was not easy. I discovered that this isn’t a normal life, it’s a good life. 

10. Epilogue My Good Life Now

Audience

My audience is the 240+ million caregivers, family members, and supporters in the United States connected on a daily basis to the 60+ million people with special needs and chronic illness. Specifically, women ages 35-45 with at least one special needs or medically fragile child. 

  • Nearly 54 Million Americans cope with special needs and the rising associated expenses, according to the National Organization on Disability.
  • Nearly one-fifth of all Americans—more than 54 million men, women and children— have a physical, sensory or intellectual disability, according to the National Organization on Disability.
  • More than 41 million Americans, or almost 15% of the population age 5 and older, have some type of disability; according to 2007 Census survey data. Some 6.2% of children ages 5 to 15, or 2.8 million kids, have disabilities, the Census Bureau found.
  • The U.S. Census Bureau says about 20% of Americans between the ages of 16 and 64 suffer some form of physical, mental or emotional impairment. Many of them are outliving their parents thanks to improved care medical technology.



Promotion

  • Appearance on “The Real” 2016
  • Boston College Alumni
  • Yale University Alumni: Boston, Los Angeles, New York City, Dallas, Chicago

Eraina Ferguson

About the author

Eraina Ferguson is a tech entrepreneur and journalist. Her story was featured in “The New Haven Register.” She holds an M.Ed in Education and an MAR in Religion from Yale.

http://www.erainaferguson.com
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Eraina Ferguson
Chapter 1
Naked
I felt relieved as I drove my friend’s 1994 Acura down Elm Street. As I passed Calhoun College and the Yale University Welcome Center I felt a sense of peace. I knew I made the right decision. Though it was the only job I had at the time, I gave my boss my resignation letter. Just as I contemplated my next move, while the car idled at the stop sign on Church Street, my cell phone rang. I wondered who could be calling me. I knew it was not my boss, our conversation was clear. Because of issues with childcare, I was forced to resign from my teaching position. Though I encountered childcare issues in the past, the last few weeks had been incredibly challenging. I was at my wits end trying to understand why I could not do this.

Seven years ago I completed the same type of teacher training at a program in New York City. Brooklyn to be exact. Back then, I also had the odds stacked up against me, but I pulled out my scriptures, got on my knees and prayed for a miracle. Years earlier, I moved to New York City with only a job, one thousand dollars and a dream of a good life for me and Taylor. What was the issue now? Why were we running into so much interference? In the past, I had the stamina to deal with this situation, but now the impossible did not seem as possible as it had in the past. I no longer had the energy to fight.  

Thirty minutes earlier, I sat with my head in my hands and sobbed. I knew my integrity would not allow me to keep the position. I must resign and move on because finding childcare was nearly impossible. Handing in the resignation letter felt like failure. I was not worried about the future and I was grateful that for a moment I was able to breathe. I could take a sigh of relief that now I could move forward, knowing that I did not kept my employer at bay. I did everything I could to make the position work.

“Hello,” I answered. “Hi, Eraina, this is Rochelle from the dining facility at Yale. “Hi how are you, Rochelle? I asked. Still puzzled about the nature of the call. I had no idea why she was calling though I remember giving her my card months earlier. I listened, unaware of the difficult news that she would deliver. “Eraina,” she warned, “Please stay calm.” Stay calm I thought, why would I need to stay calm? What happened? Why was she calling? So many questions ran through my mind and my heart began to beat faster. I held my breath waiting to hear what the difficult news would be.

She proceeded to tell me the disturbing news. Taylor had run outside naked while with the babysitter. “I looked out the window, and saw Taylor running down the driveway with no clothes on.” I pulled the car over to process the wave of panic that seemed to overtake me. I could not believe what I was hearing. After the initial waves of disbelief covered me, anger and rage followed. I called the babysitter and yelled at her, asking how she could allow this to happen. Before I could spew more anger and rage, a calm voice took the phone. 

“Hi Eraina, this is Betty Smith.*” Betty Smith, the admissions counselor at Yale Divinity? I wondered why the admissions director was there. She was the dean of admissions at the Divinity School. “As I drove in this morning I saw Taylor and pulled over to help," she confessed.  

"Taylor is fine," she comforted."Taylor is safe and just get here as soon as you can." She attempted to reassure me that everything would be fine. As I continue to drive home, I felt relieved that someone else was there besides the babysitter. It was already a challenging summer, but this was a huge blow.

There was no where else for us to go. What would I do now? How could I care for this child with no job and no childcare? That is what this second degree was about. It was supposed to place me in a position where I could excel in my academics and my career. I was so hopeful that I could finally have the career that I dreamed of and worked so hard for. As the tears streamed down my face I was feeling low and prayed that something good happened. As I pulled up to the front door, leaving my emergency hazards on, I tried to remain calm.

The babysitter explained that she was in her office when Taylor ran outside. The challenging reality of raising a special needs child is their limited understanding of danger. I used to be embarrassed by this story, worried that I would be judged. One lesson I learned at Yale Divinity, one of my fellow classmates reminded me of the scripture when Jesus asked Adam, “Who told you that you were naked?” Sometimes our experiences are based on someone else’s point of view instead of our own. Living in our truth is imperative for living the good life. 

There are so many memories that stick with me. My memories are accompanied by visions, smells and sounds that I cannot shake. I think that memory is an important part of our makeup. I compiled these memories in order to help me process the events of my young adult life. There are so many things that happened during our season in New York City, Boston and New Haven to create the person that I am today. All I knew back then is that it was my good life,  and I wanted live it to the fullest everyday.

  • Update #9 - The Books Have Shipped May 19, 2020

    Thanks so much again for your support!  The books have shipped. Everyone should receive their books soon. Please tag me on Facebook or Instagram @mygoodlifenow …

  • Update #8 - The Books Have Arrived: Shipping This Friday Jan. 30, 2020

    Dear My Good Life Supporters:

    I hope you and your family are safe and well. 

    I am pleased to announce, the books have arrived. If …

  • Update #7 - My Book Cover Oct. 11, 2019

    Hi 'My Good Life' Supporters:

    Thanks again for your ongoing support!  The book publishing process is indeed a journey. I  recently submitted my final changes …

  • Update #6 - Almost There July 21, 2019

    Hi My Good Life Book Supporters:

    I hope this note finds you well. I know it's been a while and you were expecting your book …

  • Update #5 - The Final Stretch and MAJOR Updates March 4, 2019

    Hi My Good Life Book Supporters:
    I hope this email finds you well!  I am so grateful for your support. The last several months have …

  • Update #4 - Almost There Oct. 3, 2018

    Dear Amazing Supporters:

    We are almost there.  So many amazing things have happened in the last couple months. 

  • Update #3 - New Baby Aug. 4, 2018

    Dear Amazing Supporters:

    I am thrilled to announce the birth of Winnie Ferguson. She was born on July 27th and both of us are doing …

  • Update #2 - Thank You and TEDx Talk Reel June 20, 2018

    Dear Amazing Supporters: 
    Thank you again for pre-ordering my book My Good Life. I’m so excited for you to read it.  Below are some important updates.

    • My …
  • Update #1 - Thank You and Campaign Update #1 My Good Life May 27, 2018

    Dear Amazing Supporters: 

    Thank you again to everyone who has pre-ordered my book My Good Life. I’m so excited for you to read it. Since …

Please log in to comment.

  • Rhasaan Nichols
    on April 17, 2018, 6:46 p.m.

    You are a real-life super hero, Eraina. So proud to call you + your family friends!

  • Lisa Anderson
    on April 17, 2018, 8:33 p.m.

    Looking forward to reading your long awaited book. So happy for you.

  • Nayetta Reed
    on April 17, 2018, 8:34 p.m.

    I ordered my book childhood friend. Much love and blessings to you, Jason, and them babies😘

  • Sharrell Anderson
    on April 17, 2018, 9:41 p.m.

    I'm so excited and proud of you! I admire how you manage to pursue your own hopes and desires while being the best mom to Taylor and the girls.

  • Kimberly Davis
    on April 17, 2018, 10:33 p.m.

    We brought 3 love you Cousin 😘❤️💋🙌🏽🙏🏼

  • Todd Foster
    on April 18, 2018, 1:35 a.m.

    ...and many more successful books to follow! God bless you!

  • Joyce Ricci
    on April 18, 2018, 4:10 a.m.

    Congratulations Eraina, and may God continue to bless your family, encourage your vision and provide you with a Good Life. Much love from your cousin Joyce.

  • Linda Bianco
    on April 18, 2018, 5:54 p.m.

    Eraina, I wish you the very best!! So glad you held tight to your dream. I remember the beginnings of "the good life, " when you were in New Haven at Yale. Warm regards Linda

  • Enest Richards Wilson
    on April 19, 2018, 2:59 p.m.

    Thank you for telling your amazing story. Sharon and I remember Taylor from Brooklyn. You and Taylor have come a long way. We salute you and can’t wait to read the book.

  • Sheena Williamson
    on April 19, 2018, 5:18 p.m.

    May God continue to poor out his many blessings upon you and your family! I am proud of you and inspired by you! I Love you! ❤️

  • Reginale Hall
    on April 19, 2018, 7:31 p.m.

    So proud of your accomplishments and I am looking forward to reading your adventure- Reggie Hall

  • Consuela Buckley
    on April 20, 2018, 12:01 a.m.

    Thank you Erin for your message, your perspective and your courage!

  • Vera Davis Woolfolk
    on April 20, 2018, 2:38 a.m.

    So proud of you Eraina Davis Ferguson. Although you are not my birth child, you are the daughter that GOD sent across my path and Taylor is the granddaughter. HIS Blessings are flowing over you and Jason Ferguson and your family. Love you always. Sis. Vera (as you always called me.lol)

  • Antony Partee
    on April 20, 2018, 4:34 a.m.

    May God continue to bless you.

    -from Antony and Charlene

  • Toia Mengesha
    on April 21, 2018, 6:26 a.m.

    Intentional is the most powerful way to live. Way to go Eraina - turning those lemons into lemonade.

  • Tamara Haupt
    on April 22, 2018, 2:51 p.m.

    So proud of you, Eraina! Go get it!! - Tamara

  • Anna Bleasdale
    on April 22, 2018, 2:54 p.m.

    Congratulations Eraina! So proud of you. Looking forward to reading your book and sharing your story with family and friends.

  • Lori MITCHELL
    on April 22, 2018, 11:44 p.m.

    You have my support! You are a dynamic woman of color and I am honored to know you!!!

  • Kelly Jones
    on April 24, 2018, 12:16 a.m.

    I love the promo! I’m so proud of you and excited to read your book !!

  • Fay Hauser
    on April 25, 2018, 9:37 p.m.

    So proud of your accomplishment in finishing your book. You're inspirational. Keep enjoying your Good Life

  • Jisun Jackson
    on April 26, 2018, 8:17 p.m.

    You, Taylor and your story are such a blessing and inspiration!

  • Glenda Harvey
    on May 1, 2018, 9:32 p.m.

    Blessed Be! May this book help many parents, families and friends with special needs children have a “A Good Life!”

  • Kendra Oliver
    on May 3, 2018, 2:55 p.m.

    I'm so excited to read your book! Congrats! So proud of you!

  • Jamila Pleas
    on May 3, 2018, 4:01 p.m.

    For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future!

  • Laura Rosi
    on May 3, 2018, 5:43 p.m.

    So proud of you!! I can't believe all of your hard work, and you are FINALLY launching this book! Amazing! It is all coming together!

  • Robbie Hardges
    on May 4, 2018, 1:01 p.m.

    I couldn't be more proud of you, I can't wait to read it!

  • Shanta Whitaker
    on May 8, 2018, 11:55 a.m.

    Had to support such a beautiful spirit. I am glad to call you friend! I know you will met your goal!

  • Samuel Caraballo
    on May 9, 2018, 1:36 a.m.

    So proud of you! Looking forward to reading your book! Blessings to you and the family

  • Gustav Spohn
    on May 9, 2018, 12:24 p.m.

    Dear Eraina, I can't wait to read your book! Thanks for letting me know about it.

  • Lori Hampton
    on May 10, 2018, 6:39 p.m.

    I’m so proud of you. Congrats and much success with everything in the future.

  • Sara Alderson
    on May 15, 2018, 12:41 p.m.

    It’s been a long time since we drove up to the CFCF family retreat together, but you are often on my mind. Sending lots of love to you and your beautiful family! Love, Sara Alderson (Jeff says hi, too 😊)

  • Geri Alexander
    on May 16, 2018, 8:35 p.m.

    Congrats Eraina on your book! Looking forward to diving in!!!

  • Dwight Gunn
    on May 16, 2018, 10:01 p.m.

    Congratulations Eraina! Can’t wait to read it!

  • Joy Benion
    on May 16, 2018, 10:22 p.m.

    Cousin I'm so proud of you! You are one of my Shero! Keep letting God use you. I can't wait to read your book! Thank you for who you are showing me how to live a good life! Love you Eraina!

  • Quinessa Solomon
    on May 16, 2018, 11:43 p.m.

    All the best Eraina! You deserve it all! You and your beautiful family. -Quinessa Solomon

  • Tracy Washington
    on May 17, 2018, 3:45 a.m.

    Congratulations on your book. I can’t wait to receive my copy.

  • SHARON ROSE
    on May 19, 2018, 2:11 p.m.

    I'm so proud of you! May God continue to bless you and your lovely family.

  • Chanelle Henry
    on June 1, 2018, 8:47 a.m.

    You're awesome! Glad to witness and be apart of the journey!

  • Anonymous
    on March 4, 2019, 11:17 p.m.

    So proud of the work you are doing! As a mother it is inspiring! Keep up the good work!

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