An Unexpected Normal

by Rita Angelini

A beacon of hope for parents of children with disabilities, Angelini tells the story of a Chicago couple that learns unconditional love, complete acceptance, true compassion, and a new definition of normal after their baby is diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Faced with the possibility of losing their three-day-old second child when she contracts meningitis, Norman and Rita Angelini experience all five stages of grief. Terrified for their daughter, they bargain, plead, and beg for a miracle—and they get one, but it isn’t what they though KiKi survives, her illness results in severe brain damage, and she is ultimately diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

In the aftermath of this diagnosis, denial and anger take over. Rita fights to keep her vision of who she thinks KiKi could be, and she channels her energy into searching for a procedure—some therapy—that would change KiKi’s outcome. In pursuit of a cure, the Angelini family treks across the United States and abroad—but somewhere along the way, acceptance of and joy in who KiKi is prevails over the idea of “fixing” her.

A memoir of unending hope, faith lost and rediscovered, and unconditional love, An Unexpected Normal offers other parents of children born with a disability hope that joy is always within reach—even in the most challenging of circumstances.

358 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 17, 2026

Reviews

[Neil · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-written story of one family’s journey through life with their special needs child that offers a rare, candid look into what that entails. The author carries us through both the joy and the heartaches that she and her family experienced. It’s quite a journey, and I found reading their gripping story to be a humbling experience. I truly admire their cohesiveness as a family through all the issues they face. Their communication and willingness to work together to solve problems that arose is inspiring, and their love for each other shines brightly as they navigate the normal that was theirs. I have much love and respect for the author and her family. Thank you for writing this book!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful, honest, heartfelt memoir by a super-hero warrior mama who did everything a person could do for her child. As a mother of a child with special needs, I related to all of the struggles, worries, fears, dreams, and celebrations. I could also relate to the difficult balancing act of trying to take care of a child who needs all of you while also caring for your other child and wanting time to connect with your spouse. This is a beautifully written book about the deep love between all members of a family moving through an extraordinary journey.

[Janet Vavra]

I enjoyed Rita’s undeniable ability to convey a story. She lived it and the ability to put it on paper is a gift. We all go through very similar stages when faced with devastation in our lives. Hers was to the degree I cannot imagine. I have passed the book along to my sister and plan on placing it in my church’s chapel library when she’s finished. I will certainly make people aware of the book’s presence.

[Cynthia Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I expected this book to read like a journal, but instead it drew me fully into the story. I felt the family’s joys and sorrows, their triumphs and heartbreaks, and the powerful way they embraced the hard and made it their “normal.” Rita’s writing is vivid and deeply moving - she carries you through her journey with unwavering optimism and fierce love. Her passion as a mother and relentless belief in her daughter’s potential make this story both inspiring and unforgettable.

[Sally McQuillen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading about Kiki and her mother’s relentless efforts to give her the best possible life as she navigates her care. This is a story of hope and perseverance, wavering and restored faith, deep love and devotion. I was so moved by this story and left with tears of sadness for Kiki’s suffering but also joy for the life she was given and the adoration she received from her family and every single human she touched with her smile.

[Eva Nagy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! A true understanding of the sacrifices and struggles of a family dealing with a special needs child. It gives an insight into this family’s commitment, hardships, joys and love throughout their years. It will make you smile, cry and feel a sense of closure. Recommend highly, a must read.

[Jenn Todling · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart broke for Rita as I followed her story to raise and ultimately say goodbye to her daughter. This book was raw, honest, vulnerable and so beautiful. It stayed with me and I couldn’t put it down. An important reminder of the power of a mother’s love.