Volume 2 - Issue 3, May - June 2026

Parents raising children with disabilities face a unique set of emotional, physical, social, and financial challenges that significantly shape their parenting experiences. This qualitative research aims to delve into the lived experiences of ten (10) purposively selected participants residing in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, to answer the research questions, unveiling their unique experiences and their coping strategies used to overcome the different challenges while aiming to contribute valuable knowledge and depth to the existing research in this area. The researcher also conducted in-depth, face-to-face interviews with key informants using a semi-structured questionnaire to collect information from participants. The participants were interviewed privately after obtaining their consent. Employing the Colaizzis method of analysis, the gathered data were meticulously organized into thematic categories to identify commonalities and differences in the responses and were subject to interpretation. Four major compelling themes emerged from the responses, shedding light on the unique experiences of parents raising children with disabilities. These themes encompass sub-themes such as financial strain, faith in God, and re-framing misfortune as fortune, which shows that raising a child with a disability is a profoundly challenging yet meaningful journey for them. These strategies allow them not only to survive and face the challenges but also to find purpose and meaning in their situation. Through an in-depth exploration of these themes, it seeks to deepen our understanding of the life experiences of parents raising children with disabilities. It offers insights that can inform interventions, policies, and support systems to foster positive outcomes for these families.

Anthony S. Lim-it, Perlyn Rose Odevilas, Rica Jane W. Catayong, Edralyn R. Padual, Mark G. Balbuena,"Untold Stories of Parents Raising Children with Disabilities" International Journal of Advanced Multidisciplinary Research and Educational Development, V2(3): Page(1130-1140) May-June 2026. ISSN: 3107-6513. www.ijamred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.