Resilience at its best. The story was uplifting and inspirational. The emotional upheaval of having a child with needs as severe as Rick's had to have been a psychological roller coaster for those parents. The hopes and dreams they had for their child had to be readjusted and refocused many times. The entire family possess a strength in character and resolution that most humans do not attain.
This is also a good example of not to judge what is on the inside by what is showing on the outside. Our human reactions tend to lead us to the first explanation or thought we might have.We need to be less judgmental.'Do not give up' - is a recurring message throughout their experience. The hope theme is strong and lifts the reader to improve their own outlook.