The Journey of Beautiful Destinations — Richard E. Poulin III

As Christmas approached, Rylae-Ann practiced jingles and dances onstage while decked out in a colorful costume. When showtime came, however, crying and anxiety ensued. After much prodding, Rylae-Ann (center foreground…

My daughter, Rylae-Ann, was born with a rare and debilitating genetic disease known as aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, which meant countless trips to the emergency room and a battery…

A supportive and loving community has sprung up around my daughter, Rylae-Ann. She says hello to everyone she meets on her way to school and makes it home without incident, all the while…

The sun hadn’t even risen yet, but my daughter, Rylae-Ann, was already melting down about changing out of her pajamas. By the time we got downstairs to start breakfast, her mood…

As I straightened my tie in the mirror, I could hear my daughter’s giggles getting progressively louder as she stumbled her way to my bedroom. When I heard her finally enter, I glanced over…

As I tried desperately to fall asleep after a long day, my daughter’s fingertips danced around my jawline. They explored over my eyebrows and across my lips. In the morning, her investigation resumed, finding…

Our daughter, Rylae-Ann, failed to meet her milestones at 3 months old. From that point on, she was limp and barely moving. However, she was still very much full of life, and my wife,…

My wife, Judy, and I have attended webinars, conferences, and other events to share our perspective on our daughter’s experience with aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency. We have written letters,…

My wife, Judy, and I have dedicated our professional lives to educating children. Books are an essential tool, but I never imagined that we would become authors. When our daughter, Rylae-Ann, was born in…

Our daughter, Rylae-Ann, quickly prepared a selection of delicious ice cream and scooped some onto a cone. She excitedly called out her friend’s name and passed him her colorful concoction while shouting a series…

My “Journey of Beautiful Destinations” column is designed for caregivers. In each post, I consider the nuances and specific challenges faced by families who are affected by aromatic l-amino acid…

My daughter, Rylae-Ann, chucked her cup and its contents of sweet juice across the room. As the plastic cup bounced to a standstill, it took every ounce of patience not to respond with anger,…