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Sibling of kid with disabilities never felt like a 'glass child'

The author and his brother celebrate their fifth birthday in Danny's classroom in 1988. (Courtesy Brian Trapp)
Courtesy Brian Trapp
The author and his brother celebrate their fifth birthday in Danny's classroom in 1988. (Courtesy Brian Trapp)

Brian Trapp grew up with a twin brother who had severe cerebral palsy and intellectual disabilities. But he never felt like a “glass child.

In this essay, Trapp, director of disability studies at the University of Oregon, details their deep bond and its impact on him. Trapp is also the author of the novel “Range of Motion”.

This article was originally published on WBUR.org.

Copyright 2026 WBUR

Brian Trapp