My Papa, My Pal will resonate with every parent in reflecting on the parent-child bond with refreshing insight, sensitivity, and honesty. Mr. Balusek bravely explores the emotional terrain of parenting a special needs child, and he compassionately reveals the brutal domain of grief. Kenna Stephenson, M.D. Author of Awakening Athena: Resilience, Restoration and Rejuvenation for Women There are not enough tears in the world to wash away the pain of losing a child. Your grieving is a life long process, which you adjust to with time and guidance from God. " My Papa, My Pal" is one father’s thirty-two year poetic journey with his only child. His son, Jason was born with multiple birth defects so the anxiety of numerous hospital visits, long recovery periods, his ultimate blindness, and his sudden death is all chronicled. This is a must read that will provide comfort, inspiration, and insight for any parent who has lost a child or has a child with special challenges. Don Balusek became enamored with poetry during his English studies in the seventh grade. He started writing poetry at the age of 14 as a way to express his thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. This is his first published book. Dr. Kenna Stephenson published some of his poems in 2004 in the book "Awakening Athena".