We Hear You
Customer Reviews
Real stories from parents, educators, and self-advocates who have found support, inspiration, and guidance through our resources. See how our community is making a difference—one success story at a time!

BBL
Amazon Customer
Betsy Ridgway’s authentic story of faith will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading her book. I didn’t buy the book because of its focus on raising special needs children. I bought it because of its message about hope, and I’m so grateful to have read every word. I discovered “The Song of My Hope” on Facebook, quickly bought it, and quickly read it when it arrived. I know I’ll re-read it and refer to the Topical Study Guide (There are 30 topics, ranging from criticism and worry to joy!) when I need a little extra comfort and hope.”

Cate Luther
Amazon Customer
“Inspiring I thoroughly enjoyed reading "The Song of My Hope: How to Keep Hope Alive Through Adversity." I picked this book up and didn't put it down until I finished it a few hours later. As a mom to a special needs child, much of this true story resonated. I loved how Betsy never gave up even when things got harder than she ever thought possible. If you have any adversity in your life, then I encourage you to read this book."

Lisa Lanning
Amazon Customer
“Persistence Betsy did a great job of using illustrations from her journey throughout motherhood as lessons on how to approach common difficulties we all experience in life and how to combat them with Scripture, prayer & faith. I have a lot of respect for her unwavering faith in God through difficult times."

Amazon Customer
“Awesome book! Highly recommend it! Love the title and illustration on cover. Couldn’t put this book down. Author speaks from her heart and transparent. Very real life story relatable and hope for families with special needs children. Highly recommend this book!!."

Amazon Customer
“A must read for anyone with a special needs child I absolutely loved this book. It was inspiring, educational & full of hope. I am looking forward to sharing it with my nieces that have special needs children."

Amazon Customer
“How to remain hopeful in all circumstances. Just finished reading, The Song of my Hope, what a incredible true life story. I would recommend this book to everyone that needs hope."

Amazon Customer
“Truly Inspiring I recently finished reading The Song of My Hope and I cannot recommend it enough. The story is incredibly inspiring and relatable to anyone, regardless of whether they are a parent or not, religious or not. The author has a way of weaving a captivating narrative that draws you in and keeps you hooked until the very end. The struggles their family went through not only unlocked a sense of deep empathy and appreciation for what it's like to be a parent but also gave a unique insight into the resilience and strength of the human spirit. The author's ability to authentically portray the complexities of parenthood and family dynamics left me in awe. It is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the joys and challenges of raising a family with special needs. It's a beautifully written story that will leave you feeling uplifted and motivated. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartwarming and inspiring read."

Amazon Customer
“Authentic This book is clearly moving through a simplistic, yet authentic, and powerful way. Through humor and seriousness, it portrays the author's struggles and accomplishments. By demonstrating the depths of love, as well as, how faith can carry you through adversity, this book can both inspire and assist others in their own lives."

Steve S
Amazon Customer
“The Song of My Heart" is Honest, Inspirational and Helpful In “The Song of My Hope”, by Betsy Ridgway, she shares an emotional, passionate and honest story of her experience raising 2 special needs sons. I believe that anyone with a major issue in their lives, such as a child with a chronic illness, disability, a death in the family, divorce, cancer or other challenging life issues, could benefit from reading this book. Betsy’s questions at the end of each chapter are designed to help the reader get past any emotional paralysis and move into a state of emotional freedom, enabling them to work through their difficult issues. I have sent this book to friends I know who are in such a situation and I believe it will help them work through their issues. “The Song of My Hope” is emotionally challenging, but ultimately inspirational and positive. I feel it’s worth reading and hopefully readers will gain insight from Betsy’s experience."

Amazon Customer
“Must read especially if you have special needs kids When I heard about Song of My Heart, I just had to read it because I knew the author from grade school. This book did not disappoint. Betsy is authentic and bears her heart throughout her journey. Through that journey comes the element of faith and hope that she found and we all need. Betsy's story is well written, easy to read and hard to put down. This book has encouraged my heart to encourage others on the sometimes very lonely road of raising children with special needs. It is book full of hope!

Amazon Customer
“Wonderful Book!! In a time when so many people walk away at the first hint of adversity, Betsy Ridgway’s story is a testament to God’s desire and ability to strengthen us and solidify our faith in adversity. Betsy and her husband Russ pull together and rely on God to help them through when confronted with the unimaginable. This extremely well-written account of heartbreaking setbacks and faith-driven triumph with her special needs children is inspiring and instructional. Betsy involves the reader with questions at the end of each chapter that ask how her experience with God and scripture might be relevant in their lives as well. In sharing her story, Betsy Ridgway provides an inspiring example of faith through adversity and God’s answer to prayer."

Amazon Customer
“Love Triumphs Life Trials I thoroughly enjoyed this book, that is of course if "enjoyed" is the correct terminology to describe reading about the dramatic experiences that Betsy and her family went through. I give her tremendous credit for baring her soul and heart to the world, and her bravery in overcoming the obstacles and hardships that life threw her way. She is an amazing person, but this puts her in the "Angels on Earth" category. Wow!"

Amazon Customer
“Touching, warm, humorous, and highly inspirational! Betsy Ridgway’s book, The Song Of My Hope, is an inspirational and encouraging true story. The book is filled with ways to work through feelings of hopelessness and adversity, which we all experience in our day to day lives. The author shares her incredible journey raising two special needs children with warmth and humor. Even if you don’t have children this book will give you clear insight on how to overcome hopelessness, no matter how difficult your life circumstances. The Song Of My Hope will inspire you to grow closer to God and believe He has a plan for your life, and through Him there is Hope. I highly recommend this book."

Amazon Customer
Amazon Customer
“Very Inspirational I do not have special needs children, but I was totally inspired by Betsy's challenges with her boys, how she handled them, and even more inspired by what she learned from them. The scriptures at the beginning of each chapter made me want to know "what happens next?" Then I would always go back and read the scripture again after I finished the chapter and I would invariably have an "aha!" moment. I loved reading this book!"

Amazon Customer
Amazon Customer
No matter what life throws at you you can make itvwith God’s help ! Absolutely loved the book ! I do not read too many books all the way through but this one was so easy to get into and just so RICH and powerful . My youngest son came for a visit and he saw the book on the coffee table . He read the book all the way to chapter 20 which was a big surprise and then told me to read chapter 20 . He said mom you need to read chapter 20 and do what is suggested ! He was right !"

Amazon Customer
“Insight and hope for raising a child with special needs from birth to adulthood I have had the privilege to know Betsy and Russ for years and to watch Sean and Cameron grow up. This book is a wealth of practical information, encouragement and inspiration for any parent or family living with disability. It will help you navigate as Betsy speaks both as a mom and special needs advocate. She openly shares her joys and struggles with personal stories relating to medical hospitalizations, school programs, adult transitions and her marriage. Filled with both humor and her personal faith, this book is a quick read because you won't want to put it down!"

Amazon Customer
“Betsy’s story — God’s story. Above all, The Song of My Hope is a personal story— a story of a faith journey. I am always inspired by story. This story speaks to women who have struggled. It speaks to parents of children with special needs. But most of all it speaks God’s love to my heart. Betsy reminds us through her personal journey and story of faith, hope, love, and the promises of God."

Amazon Customer
“Great source of HOPE! Betsy! I loved reading your book and was so touched by your tender open heart and how vulnerable you were in sharing your journey. ✝️ May many be blessed and encouraged by it - to God be the glory!"

Amazon Customer
“There is a reason to hope as a special needs parent! This beautiful book gives an honest look into a mom’s journey in raising two special needs boys and the source of hope that saw her through to the other side. The accounts prompt laughter, tears, as well as a sense of appreciation and empathy for the parents who shoulder the extra burdens with special needs children. I think every parent can benefit from the insights and example this book provides, but in particular, special needs parents will be encouraged and enlightened."

Amazon Customer
“Absolutely Inspiring Struggling to make sense of your intense struggles, pains and challenges? Are you shocked at how different life has turned out to be than how you pictured it would be just a few years back. This story will inspire hope and perseverance for the weary and wondering. Through Betsy's story we can clearly see that God knows, cares, sees you and your struggles and needs, and will give you hope and endurance for your trials. It is that good!"

Amazon Customer
“Parenting with faith and courage This book is both humbling and inspirational. The author and her husband had a very difficult road parenting two adoptive special needs boys. I was in awe both of their courage and steadfastness as well as their faith. This book opened my eyes to the unique journey they were on and proved inspiring for different challenges that I have faced. This book would be a blessing to those dealing with similar issues."

Amazon Customer
“Heartwarming without being cliche, deep without being too heavy I loved Betsy's book. I am not the parent of a special needs child, but I felt invited into her world through great storytelling—and an incredible sense of humor! What could be depressing was just real and authentic, and I found myself rooting for her and her entire family. Thank you, Betsy, for sharing your gift with us and helping us to put our focus where it should be during life's challenges."

Amazon Customer
“A must read for navigating the waters with special needs children This book offers great insight into the reality of adopting special needs children. Betsy Ridgeway candidly reveals her secret to hope: faith in God! She shares her struggles and the powerful scriptures that helped get her through some very challenging and scary moments. You'll enjoy the wealth of information and life hacks to cope with your own special needs children as well as some time to self-reflect as you go along.

Amazon Customer
“FAITH It was truly an inspiration to see the love they shared though out the years of pain and suffering. Highly recommended for all."

Amazon Customer
“Uplifting and inspiring! I have already given several copies to friends! This book is not only encouraging, but full of funny stories that allow you to see life through the eyes of a mother who can teach us all how to overcome life's challenges. With hope, and the "day at a time" mentality, she got through each and every obstacle. God is definitely her strength, which should help us all realize He wants to be there for us, always!"

Amazon Customer
“I definitely recommend this book to anyone who needs a boost of love and encouragement. I was truly inspired by the Song of My Hope and blessed by the the way Betsy’s faith was demonstrated in her examples. Her ups and downs are relatable and presented in a captivating read. I was motivated to purchase several of her books to give to acquaintances who needed the encouragement and faith to persevere in life’s disappointments. They, too have been thankful for the inspiration given."

Amazon Customer
“Easy read and tremendously encouraging to parents of special needs children. I love how Betsy keeps going back to the source of all comfort...Jesus! I'd recommend this book to anyone raising a special needs child or who has a grandchild with special needs. It should also be a must read for churches starting a ministry to those with special needs. The church really showed up for the Ridgway family and showed us all how we can minister to these families!"

Amazon Customer
“Great book to learn about this special gift from God. I loved this book! The author shares her personal background and experiences. As the book mentions, “Her personal stories will inspire you and teach you how to gain hope, despite your challenging hardships.” This would be a great book for a group study. It includes questions after each chapter and has supplements at the back of the book."

Amazon Customer
“Autobiography, Self-Help, Reference - All-in-One Book It's a life story of knowing where to turn and return when dealing with hardship and unexpected challenges. I didn't anticipate the areas of self-reflection nor did I think I would laugh and cry. Nice reading."

Amazon Customer
“A must read! This book really captured my heart! The true story of a loving Mother and all she has endured. Anyone with a special needs child, this is a must read! The story is amazing!"

Amazon Customer
“Helpful, easy read! Beautifully written with plenty of helpful passages of hope. Many helpful scripture references and places for self reflection. It is a great easy read. Loved it!"

Amazon Customer
“A great story of hope in the Lord when trials come Really enjoyed reading this book with my friends because the verses and discussion questions made for great thought- provoking conversations."

Amazon Customer
“Filled with reasons for faith!! Loved the inspirational stories and scripture verses! So many miracles and reasons for hope."

Amazon Customer
“A great book to assist and guide through turbulent times in life. Congratulations to Betsy Kay Ridgway for writing such an empowering book. She lays herself bare and guides the reader through her trials in life with great care. Betsy shares many lessons and asks the reader to reflect and write down similar situations and results in the sections provided, which also come with beautiful scriptures. I will reread this book many times especially when facing some of life's challenges. It is a wonderfully inspirational story."

Amazon Customer
“Truly lets a person recognize the hope in all of us. This book is marvelous! Betsy has been able to give us a window into their life of challenges, faith & love in an extraordinary way. Reading this book not only makes us more aware of our own lives through their experiences but helps us to learn and consider it, possibly in a different light. At the same time showing lots of examples of hope. At the end of each chapter is a place to reflect & hear the help offered. God couldn’t have chosen anyone better than Betsy to share with us this rollercoaster of life, love, and shared hope for now and the future. Reading it will truly inspire you."

Amazon Customer
I read this book several years ago when my special needs daughter was younger. It provided me with hope in the midst of our struggles. God saw this family through many trials. Really a great book for anyone trying to find hope when it seems hope is lost. View this book's reviews on Amazon (https://amazon.com/product-reviews/168486626X)

Amazon Customer
In THE SONG OF MY HOPE, Betsy Ridgway shares her journey learning to trust and depend on God as she and her husband raise special needs kids. Betsy and her husband allow us to walk alongside them as God reveals His goodness and sufficiency in the midst of difficult and challenging circumstances. View this book's reviews on Amazon (https://amazon.com/product-reviews/168486626X)

Amazon Customer
Reading the book The Song of My Hope brought me such encouragement. Hearing how God showed up in such difficult periods of raising special needs boys was a reminder that the Lord sees and knows and cares about our lives and needs. So many of the accounts in the book were humorous, and I couldn't help but laugh. So don't be surprised by tears of laughter and tears of empathy- either way, have Kleenex nearby. I loved this book View this book's reviews on Amazon (https://amazon.com/product-reviews/168486626X)

Amazon Customer
In THE SONG OF MY HOPE, Betsy Ridgway candidly shares her story. You feel as though she is a close friend and you are having a cup of coffee together while you learn of the many challenges she experienced while raising special needs children. Hope and faith are woven throughout her story as she learns to more fully depend on God in difficult circumstances. I will be giving both the .book and journal to my sister who has a special needs son. I know it will be encouraging to her. View this book's reviews on Amazon (https://amazon.com/product-reviews/168486626X)

Amazon Customer
Raising kids is hard enough without the challenge added in having a special needs child. This book provided great encouragement to those experiencing this challenge. When reading the stories I felt the hope that only God provides. I enjoyed the great stories and real life situations! Would recommend this to anyone with kids looking for hope and an uplifting in life. View this book's reviews on Amazon (https://amazon.com/product-reviews/168486626X)

Amazon Customer
Ridgway's My Hope Journal is a companion book to The Song of My Hope. I highly suggest reading the book, but even if you just need a Journal to help you find hope, this is a great tool. We struggle with different fears and trials throughout different stages in our lives. This daily journal uses God's Word and thought provoking questions to guide you through to find answers and comfort. This journal could also be a great way to springboard conversations with your friend/support group as you read through Ridgway's book and discuss your struggles. Hoping you find peace and strength to be victorious every day. View this book's reviews on Amazon (https://amazon.com/product-reviews/1684865816)

Amazon Customer
Have you ever felt like your life is too hard?! Have you ever felt like no one could really understand your suffering because nobody has ever really gone through the hard things you are going through? Not only does Ridgway open your eyes to her struggles so you don't feel alone, but she gives you hope and advice on how to get through your struggles. God is always there and we know He has compassion and love for us. But sometimes we still feel https://author.amazon.com/marketingAndReports/customerReviews 3/5 3/15/25, 3:35 PM HOPE JOURNAL Amazon Author alone in our situation, and we wonder how we're going to get through the struggles that keep swelling over us. It inspires us to know that others have gone through struggles and come out victorious. Your struggles may not be the same, but there are things in this book you can relate to. Maybe you didn't have cancer but you have another health issue. There is hope for you. Maybe your child didn't have a brain tumor that led to a disability but your children have other health issues or behavioral problems and you are not sure what to do. Maybe you think you have to do it all alone. This book will show the strength of friendships and family. Maybe you have a friend or family member that has a child with difficulty or disability. Now you can understand and help them in a way that you couldn't before. Do you need to feel that you're not alone in your struggle? Are you looking for a way out? This book will open your eyes to a way through to a beautiful end. This book will give you hope. View this book's reviews on Amazon (https://amazon.com/product-reviews/168486626X)

Amazon Customer
This journal will help you as you work through the book. Great though provoking questions! Would recommend this to anyone with kids looking for hope and an uplifting in life. View this book's reviews on Amazon (https://amazon.com/product-reviews/1684865816)

Amazon Customer
When I read this book and the journal I realized how much I did not know about kids with special needs, and especially what the parents have to go through. It was very eye-opening for me to hear how difficult it was having a special needs child, But how isolated one can feel when talking with other parents who have kids who are "normal. If you are looking for a book full of insights and hope dealing with special needs, please pick up the book and journal. View this book's reviews on Amazon (https://amazon.com/product-reviews/1684865816)

THE SONG OF MY HOPE
How You Can Travel from Despair to Hope While Raising Your Special Needs Kids
In the Song of My Hope, Betsy shares her educational experience and parenting expertise to help parents and caregivers of special needs children:
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Find resilience in the face of exhaustion and heartbreak,
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Develop a sense of unshakeable peace and calm,
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Strengthen the bonds of marriage to weather the storm,
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Open-up to greater gratitude and joy through the words of Scripture,
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Discover a sense of purpose in the struggles.
MY HOPE JOURNAL
Companion to THE SONG OF MY HOPE for Connection Groups
Connecting with friends at a Bible Study or Book Club using THE SONG OF MY HOPE and MY HOPE JOURNAL can lead you to:
• Desiring a daily devotion time with God,
• Forming deeper friendships,
• Feeling refreshed and more hopeful,
• Sharing more deeply about your life and faith,
• Finding a new path to hope and joy, and
• Singing a new song in your heart!
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This Book Is for You!
Parenting a child with special needs comes with unique challenges—but also incredible joy. This book offers real stories, practical insights, and heartfelt encouragement from someone who truly understands the journey.