BUCHANAN — Longtime Buchanan resident Barb Schuck has chronicled the joys and struggles of raising a special-needs child in her book, “Jared’s Path.”

Schuck said “Jared’s Path” was published through Xlibris, an online publishing company, in October of 2012.

“Jared’s Path” is the true story of how Schuck and her husband, Larry, raised their now 18-year-old son, Jared. Schuck said Jared was born with several disabilities, including cerebral palsy, autism and mitochondrial disease. He had a life expectancy of one year.

“It’s an inspirational book about dealing with medical challenges and keeping a positive outlook,” she said. “It is a true story that a lot of caregivers can relate to. Even if you don’t have a special needs child, anybody can relate to a lot of these problems.”

Barb began thinking about writing a book shortly after Jared was born. She kept a journal while she raised him and finally sat down to write the book last year.

Barb said her motivation was to help others.

“A lot of times when you are dealing with special needs you feel alone — you don’t think there are other people going through the same things you are,” she said. “I believe everything happens for a reason … if I can pass on things that I’ve learned to others, it may be that purpose.”

Barb said Jared is attending school at Blossomland Learning Center in Berrien Springs. He participates in the Special Olympics and is a member of the Berrien County Best Friends 4-H.

“Jared’s Path” is available at Amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and xlibris.com. Signed copies are available through the Jared’s Path page on Facebook.

The Schucks have lived in Buchanan for almost 30 years. They owned and operated an asphalt/paving company in Buchanan for 26 years until it closed last year.