A Personal Reflection on National Siblings Day
Today is National Siblings Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the unique and meaningful relationships between brothers and sisters.
For those who may not know me, my name is Jess Quarello, and I serve as the Brand Communications Manager at Community Supports Network. Much of my work involves sharing stories, resources, and information that support individuals with disabilities and their families. But beyond my professional role, this work is also deeply personal to me.
I’m the mom of two incredible girls—Charlee and Addie.
Watching the relationship between my daughters grow has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Like many siblings, they share laughter, imagination, and the countless small moments that make childhood so special. They play together, make up games, and occasionally argue over toys or whose turn it is to choose the movie. In many ways, their relationship looks just like that of any other pair of sisters.
But their bond also carries a deeper layer of meaning for our family.
My younger daughter, Addie, has Down syndrome. While that is certainly part of her story, it has never defined the love and connection she shares with Charlee. To Charlee, Addie is simply her little sister—someone she loves, protects, laughs with, and grows alongside every day.
Growing up with a sibling with a disability can shape children in incredibly powerful ways. Siblings often develop empathy, patience, and resilience from a very young age. They learn that differences are simply part of the human experience and that everyone deserves respect, opportunity, and inclusion.
As a parent, I often find myself observing Charlee and realizing that she is growing up with a perspective many people only gain later in life. She sees the world through a lens of compassion and understanding. She celebrates Addie’s accomplishments, supports her when things are challenging, and reminds me every day how naturally children can embrace inclusion when they grow up in an environment that values it.
Siblings of individuals with disabilities often become some of the most important supporters and advocates in a person’s life. They grow up witnessing determination and resilience, celebrating milestones that others might overlook, and learning that success can take many different forms.
Their role in a family’s journey is incredibly meaningful. While much of the focus in the disability community understandably centers around the individual receiving services, siblings are often quietly learning, growing, and contributing in ways that shape the entire family dynamic.
Through my work at Community Supports Network, I see this every day. Behind each individual building skills, finding employment, gaining independence, or participating in their community, there is often a network of family members who have been part of that journey from the very beginning. Siblings, in particular, bring a unique kind of support—one built on shared experiences, lifelong connection, and unconditional love.
For families navigating disability, these sibling relationships can be a powerful source of strength, understanding, and encouragement.
Today, on National Siblings Day, I’m especially grateful for the bond that Charlee and Addie share. Their relationship reminds me daily that inclusion begins at home, in the small everyday moments that shape how we see and support one another.
It’s a reminder that family connections—especially those between siblings—can play an incredibly meaningful role in helping individuals grow, thrive, and feel supported throughout their lives.
To all the siblings who grow up alongside brothers and sisters with disabilities, thank you. Your compassion, patience, and advocacy help create a more understanding and inclusive world.
Happy National Siblings Day.
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Jess Quarello
Brand Communications Manager
Community Supports Network