Rainbows and Butterflies-Heartfelt Stories of Special People and Special Education

[email protected] | www.TinyEYE.com | 1-877-846-9393 (toll free)

Rainbows and Butterflies Heartfelt Stories of Special People and Special Education

“Live your life from your heart. Share from your heart.

And your story will touch and heal people's souls.”

~Melody Beattie

With gratitude, I acknowledge the people who generously shared their story for you to experience.

Maybe yours is similar, maybe not. Regardless of what brings us here to the same place in this book, we

have something in common. Soul. Soul is what makes us tear up when we see someone overcome a

great obstacle. Soul is what puts that lump in our throat when we feel such empathy for another’s

struggles. Soul is what helps us to see a little bit of ourselves, plus a little bit of miracle, in people we

meet.

It was my privilege to compile these stories into this book. Through the process, I realized that none of

us are simply walking horizontally through life for our own purpose. Our journeys are incredibly

intertwined. I read more than once that the people who thought they were doing the helping, were in

fact on the receiving end…they would never be the same because of a chance crossing of paths with the

people who supposedly “needed them”. I read about incredible triumphs and celebrations as well as

sorrow and reflection. The love of families and the rainbow of emotions made it clear that uniting and

overcoming is far better than dividing and conquering. A common denominator was “believing.” The

biggest gift you can give people is to transparently believe in them. And whether you hear a soft whisper

or a loud bellow, your inner voice must tell you to believe…believe bigger than you think you are, believe

the power is within you, believe you can go one more day…

This book is called Rainbows and Butterflies. Rainbows cannot come out without the rain. In fact, the

embrace of a rainbow spreads colorfully across the sky when the sun shines through the rain. We treasure

that the rainbow has several different colors – and we value that each color proudly shines its own light.

Butterflies are not born with wings. In fact, they are born with little hope of ever leaving the ground – that

is if they decide to remain a caterpillar. How sad it would be if the caterpillar believed he would never

flutter atop the flowers. Instead, he grows the wings that were always within him, takes a leap of faith,

and soars. While we work through our own personal journeys:

May we be the hand the reaches out and the smile that stretches wide.

May we share our words of encouragement for the ones who’ve tried and tried.

May we be the message of hope and the voice that easily sings.

May we cherish our own colors of the rainbow and spread our growing wings.

~Marnee Brick, November 2009


TinyEYE makes a positive difference in children’s lives by connecting them with specialized speech-language

pathologists. Our therapists serve children around the world by meeting with them, educators, and

caregivers via TinyEYE’s on-line therapy office. Through this on-line connection, children enjoy quality

speech therapy services regardless of where they live. We help children to understand what they hear, to

speak so that others understand them, and to use their voice to share their ideas; their wishes; their stories.

In addition to providing on-line therapy and supervision services, TinyEYE’s outreach team visits communities

to complete assessments and support programming needs.

TinyEYE believes in children. Because we understand the heart of a child, we care so much that we

contribute to its contentment. Because we understand the fragile self-concept of a child, we care so much

that we contribute to building self-esteem. And because we understand the value of our service, we care so

much about contributing in a way that is relevant and important to the life of each child. We grow smiles,

mend spirits, and engage children in their lives…just like Operation Smile.

TinyEYE is raising funds to help Operation Smile. Our goal is to grow over 40 smiles by giving Operation Smile $10

000 by December 31, 2010. Watch our donations grow at http://support.operationsmile.org/goto/TinyEYE.

Operation Smile provides free surgeries to repair cleft lip, cleft palate and other

facial deformities for children around the globe. Every three minutes, a child is born

with a cleft condition. A cleft is an opening in the lip, the roof of the mouth or the

soft tissue in the back of the mouth. Untreated, it often leaves a child unable to eat,

speak, socialize or smile. In some places these children are shunned and rejected. In

too many cases, parents cannot afford to give them the surgeries they need to live a

normal life.

Thanks to the generosity and spirit of volunteerism shown by supporters, Operation

Smile heals thousands of children per year and, today, more than 135,000 girls and

boys have a new chance at a new life.

Healing children's smiles. Making the world a better place. http://www.operationsmile.org/


Rainbows and Butterflies Heartfelt Stories of Special People and Special Education

A Daughter’s Message Maria’s Story 1

A Father’s Son Tom’s Story 2

A Mother’s Intuition Jodi’s Story 4

And One Person Raised Her Hand Janet’s Story 5

Bobbi Veronica’s Story 6

Treasures Susan’s Story 8

Boost to Distinction Susan’s Poem 9

Dare to Imagine Karen’s Story 10

Don’t Cry Mom, I’m With You L. Mae’s Blog 11

IEP Serenity Wish L. Mae’s Blog 12

I Don’t See it That Way Your Friend’s Story 13

I Just Am Bryan’s Story 15

Just See Me Robert’s Blog 16

Miracles Found in Art Bailey’s Story 17

My Vision Donna’s Story 19

Nashville Bound Veronica’s Story 21

Unlocking Potential David’s Story 22

When Life Seems out of Tune – Sing Joaline’s Story 24

Windows to the Soul Susan’s Story 25

Words of Encouragement Derrick’s Story 27

State of Flux Amy’s Story 28

Plant a Seed – Watch it Grow Susan’s Story 30

The Legacy Pablo’s Story 31

Lifeline to Hope Michele’s Story 32

Part of a Bigger Plan Chelsea’s Story 33

Your Special Brush A Child’s Voice 35

A Daughter’s Message

[email protected] |

Each night I close my eyes

so that I might find you

again…laughing, dancing

and running to me.

“One of the hardest things in life is having words in your heart that you can’t utter.”

When new parents are asked what they dream of for their baby, a common response is “I just want her to

grow up to be happy”. As the journey unfolds differently than we expected it would, we sometimes find

ourselves saying, “Hey, this wasn’t the plan! Why has this happened to my precious child? ” We might

mourn what is…and what will not be. The gift of parenthood brings gre

perseverance. As our new reality unfolds, our hearts embrace our child. We find new moments to

treasure, different achievements to celebrate, and another wish

remains: We just want our child to grow up to be happy.

Our first story was shared by a mother who found peace in her reality after receiving a special message

from her daughter, who is living with a disability.

Maria’s

I dreamt once that my daughter and I me

sat there wondering why we found

disability and me as her caregiver

joyfully and knowingly at me and

while you know? You just need to learn how to feel

opening up my partially closed heart and hope I

.

A Father’s Son



~ James Earl Jones


As the journey unfolds differently than we expected it would, we sometimes find


mourn what is…and what will not be. The gift of parenthood brings great responsibility and tremendous


treasure, different achievements to celebrate, and another wish-come-true. Still, our resilient focus

our child to grow up to be happy.


from her daughter, who is living with a disability.

Maria’s story:

I dreamt once that my daughter and I met in a place between

found ourselves in this situation, this life or ours,

as her caregiver…or is it the other way around? And she was

at me and said, “You take things so seriously… this is only for a little

ou just need to learn how to feel.” And so I continue in my journey of

closed heart and hope I can fulfill my purpose.

9393 (toll free)



As the journey unfolds differently than we expected it would, we sometimes find


at responsibility and tremendous


true. Still, our resilient focus


ce between lives. I

ours, her with her

And she was laughing,

seriously… this is only for a little

nd so I continue in my journey of

[email protected] |

“Just when you think you have learned what you need to know in life, someone special comes into it

and shows just how much more there is.” ~Tom

Tom’s story:

Karen and I had been married for over four years when on December 3, 1981, our son, Bryan, was

man who loves to play all sports, except baseball. At that time, I sure could not

happiness, pride, knowledge and love that Brya

When Bryan was born, my wife, Karen, and I knew that our lives were going to change dramatically.

Since there was no Internet back then, and very little help from the library, we chose to raise Bryan

as if he were “normal”. Every professional that we spoke with and every item that we read said the

same thing – “just take this baby home and love him. See that he walks and talks, but don’t expect

much.” So we simply raised our son the same way we would have raised a son

without an intellectual disability. We tried to incorporate anything and

everything into his life. We took him everywhere we went: shopping,

parties, concerts and trips. Of course, we also sang to him and read to

him. We included all the academics that we though

Parents today are so lucky to have the resources needed and the

therapies available that we did not have. But when I see Bryan open a door for

girl, without being asked, I know that Karen and I did a good job.


k you have learned what you need to know in life, someone special comes into it

and shows just how much more there is.” ~Tom


born. As I watched this miracle unfold in the birthing room, I

realized our son’s eyes looked different from what I had expected.

And even though I did not have a lot of experience with Down

syndrome, I knew right then that our boy had it and immediately

my first selfish thought was, “Who will I play baseball with?” Little

did I know at that time that Bryan would grow up to be a young

man who loves to play all sports, except baseball. At that time, I sure could not

happiness, pride, knowledge and love that Bryan was to bring into my life.



Every professional that we spoke with and every item that we read said the

“just take this baby home and love him. See that he walks and talks, but don’t expect

much.” So we simply raised our son the same way we would have raised a son

t an intellectual disability. We tried to incorporate anything and

everything into his life. We took him everywhere we went: shopping,

parties, concerts and trips. Of course, we also sang to him and read to

him. We included all the academics that we thought he could handle.

Parents today are so lucky to have the resources needed and the

therapies available that we did not have. But when I see Bryan open a door for

girl, without being asked, I know that Karen and I did a good job.

9393 (toll free)

A child is a gift

that will unwrap

for you each day…

for the rest of

your life.

k you have learned what you need to know in life, someone special comes into it


his miracle unfold in the birthing room, I

realized our son’s eyes looked different from what I had expected.

And even though I did not have a lot of experience with Down

syndrome, I knew right then that our boy had it and immediately

ght was, “Who will I play baseball with?” Little

did I know at that time that Bryan would grow up to be a young

man who loves to play all sports, except baseball. At that time, I sure could not envision the



Every professional that we spoke with and every item that we read said the

“just take this baby home and love him. See that he walks and talks, but don’t expect

therapies available that we did not have. But when I see Bryan open a door for a

[email protected] |

When it was time for Bryan to be included in school, we fought for that right. When it was time for

Bryan to make his Holy Communion and Confirmation, we fought for those rights. When it was time

for Bryan to play on a soccer team, we fought for his right to play with his peer

decided he wanted a tattoo, we fought for his right to honor

his favorite band, Aerosmith! And when it was time for Bryan

to walk with his peers at his high school graduation, we fought

for that right.

In the meantime, I was busy every sp

about Bryan. The finished product,

RESOLVE … a Special Olympics Athlete’s Road to Gold,

because of Bryan. It culminates with our trip to Ireland, where we were invited to sp

Congress, and coming home with gold medals.

I took a job in the Special Ed department at the high school where both our kids graduated, in Bryan’s

Throughout the years, Bryan has taught me about humility, by accepting who he is and never

complaining. He has taught me to be patient, by waiting for opportunities to present themselves. He

Bryan has shown

me an

unconditional love

for which I was

unprepared. He

has brought more

happiness to my

life than I could

have dreamed

possible. He has

made me proud to

be his dad.


Bryan to be included in school, we fought for that right. When it was time for


for Bryan to play on a soccer team, we fought for his right to play with his peers. When Bryan

decided he wanted a tattoo, we fought for his right to honor

his favorite band, Aerosmith! And when it was time for Bryan

to walk with his peers at his high school graduation, we fought

In the meantime, I was busy every spare moment writing …

about Bryan. The finished product, SPIRIT, COURAGE and

RESOLVE … a Special Olympics Athlete’s Road to Gold, details my family’s experiences with and

because of Bryan. It culminates with our trip to Ireland, where we were invited to sp

Congress, and coming home with gold medals.


old Life Skills classroom! I now know that this is where I truly belong

and where I will spend the rest of my working days. In the

meantime, my wife and I decided we wanted to give something

back. Along with other parents, we started a non

RAD, Recreation and Athletics for the Disabled. We exist solely to

financially assist anyone with an intellectual disability who cannot

afford to participate in Special Olympics activities in Chandler.

As Bryan and the rest of us have gotten older, I have noticed him

slowing down a bit, a little forgetful at times, and he gets tired

quicker now. Course, who doesn’t? He still loves his rock and roll,

favorite television shows and going to dances, but we definitely

worry about his future. We certainly do not mind if he lives with

us forever, but we would like him to be more independent and

perhaps live with others.



9393 (toll free)

Bryan to be included in school, we fought for that right. When it was time for


s. When Bryan

details my family’s experiences with and

because of Bryan. It culminates with our trip to Ireland, where we were invited to speak to


old Life Skills classroom! I now know that this is where I truly belong

st of my working days. In the

meantime, my wife and I decided we wanted to give something

back. Along with other parents, we started a non-profit group called,

RAD, Recreation and Athletics for the Disabled. We exist solely to

h an intellectual disability who cannot

afford to participate in Special Olympics activities in Chandler.

As Bryan and the rest of us have gotten older, I have noticed him

slowing down a bit, a little forgetful at times, and he gets tired

urse, who doesn’t? He still loves his rock and roll,

favorite television shows and going to dances, but we definitely

worry about his future. We certainly do not mind if he lives with

us forever, but we would like him to be more independent and



[email protected] |

I have walked in my child’s

shoes.

I know his journey for I

have taken it myself. For

this reason, I will spread

my wings so that he

believes he too can fly.

has given me the knowledge to be who I am today.

German Shepherd, Ozzie, I am now an advocate for people and animals with disabilities.

http://www.spiritcourageresolve.com/

A Mother’s Intuition

One can never co

Jodi’s Story:

I'm an adult who received special ed

grade until 5th.

After

One of my three children struggles in school.

testing, he now receives special ed

huge difference in every aspect of his life!

decent special ed

I am a first time author. My book

Happy Medium. Writing has long been a

received as a child, I am not certain I would have had the confidence to move forward and

my dreams.

Today, Jodi helps business owners and individuals learn how to

utilize their own intuition in their everyday life. In addition, she

is a medium and helps clients understand their continued

connection with loved ones on the other side.

http://www.theintuitivecoach.com/Jodi_Livon.html

http://www.motivational-well-being.com/right

you.html


has given me the knowledge to be who I am today. And because of him and our three legged


http://www.spiritcourageresolve.com/

One can never consent to creep when one feels an impulse to soar.

~Helen Keller

I'm an adult who received special education services as a child, from first

grade until 5th.

After bombing first grade, I was diagnosed with a learning disability

and received special education help almost daily until junior high.

The techniques I learned help me to this day.

yet I ended up doing really well in High School and graduated

college with honors.

My special education teacher saved my educ

One of my three children struggles in school. Though it took outside

testing, he now receives special education services and it has made a

huge difference in every aspect of his life! I cannot say enough about the

decent special education teachers I have met over the years

book was released by Llewellyn Worldwide this August and is titled,

Writing has long been a passion of mine. Without the special ed

I am not certain I would have had the confidence to move forward and

helps business owners and individuals learn how to

utilize their own intuition in their everyday life. In addition, she

s understand their continued

connection with loved ones on the other side.

http://www.theintuitivecoach.com/Jodi_Livon.html

being.com/right-here-with-

9393 (toll free)

And because of him and our three legged


nsent to creep when one feels an impulse to soar.

services as a child, from first

first grade, I was diagnosed with a learning disability

help almost daily until junior high.

It took some time,

yet I ended up doing really well in High School and graduated

My special education teacher saved my educational career!

Though it took outside

services and it has made a

I cannot say enough about the

teachers I have met over the years.

this August and is titled, The

Without the special education help I

I am not certain I would have had the confidence to move forward and reach for

[email protected] |

I see beyond your sweet

freckles, your long

eyelashes, your wide

smile…I see your radiant

spirit. Nurturing you,

cheering you, and loving

you will be a gift to me.

And One Person Raised Her Hand: “I Will Take Her”

“I am a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and

I didn't have the heart to let him down...”

Janet’s Story:

My background is in Special Education and I taught in a wonderful state school in Texas. It came to

be that I became the legal guardian of a severely disabled child who had been abandoned at birth.

She was not even given a name.

incredible to witness the proof

able to be her teacher (back in 1977), I never dreamed that she would now

be able to hold a job. The

worthy as any other child. She lives in a dormitory, helps with meals

and dresses herself. When she graduated f

made it their life’s purpose


And One Person Raised Her Hand: “I Will Take Her”


I didn't have the heart to let him down...”

~Abraham Lincoln


al guardian of a severely disabled child who had been abandoned at birth.

. As I have watched her progression as she has matured, it has been

incredible to witness the proof of people willing to work with her. When I was

to be her teacher (back in 1977), I never dreamed that she would now

be able to hold a job. The milestones we celebrate


and dresses herself. When she graduated from a divided plastic tray

to a regular diner plate, it was because the staff devoted time and

care to her. When she didn't cry the first time when I had to leave,

I cried. I knew she was developing with help from teachers and

trainers. Her quality of life expanded beyond what was planned

for her at birth. This is largely due to the group of individuals who

made it their life’s purpose to contribute, to teach, to believe

9393 (toll free)



al guardian of a severely disabled child who had been abandoned at birth.

As I have watched her progression as she has matured, it has been

of people willing to work with her. When I was

to be her teacher (back in 1977), I never dreamed that she would now

celebrate with her are just as


rom a divided plastic tray

to a regular diner plate, it was because the staff devoted time and

care to her. When she didn't cry the first time when I had to leave,

I cried. I knew she was developing with help from teachers and

f life expanded beyond what was planned

for her at birth. This is largely due to the group of individuals who

to contribute, to teach, to believe.


In all the lands of this

universe, our paths crossed

at this moment, here. Stay

with me a while. Then, if

you must go, I will hold

your everlasting light in my

heart.

Bobbi

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of

overwhelming obstacles.”

~Christopher Reeve

Veronica’s story:

I have been a special education teacher in Boone County, Madison, WV at Scott High School since

l992. I live 96 miles (roundtrip) from there and it has been my choice to drive this

distance to be part of such an excellent school system and special

education department. My first year teaching there, I had a student

with locked in syndrome. Bobbi had been hit by a car in 4th grade

and lived with a traumatic brain injury.

I was with Bobbi until she was 21.

Bobbi had purple everything throughout the time I knew her:

purple clothes, purple ceramic tile in her bedroom, and a purple

prom dress. I escorted her to her

senior prom. Her boyfriend, who she

liked in elementary school before the

accident, danced with her. Needless to say,

there was not dry eye in the room. After that, her mom said she had a

surprise for me and told me to come out to the car. Bobbi mouthed the

words and sang to me "Wind Beneath My Wings": …Did you ever know

that you're my hero, and everything I would like to be? I can fly higher

than an eagle, 'cause you are the wind beneath my wings….

Bobbie was maid of honor at my wedding. She wore a purple gown. She looked like Cinderella

being wheeled down the aisle! We practiced for weeks doing therapy for her to be able to open her

hand wide enough to let go of the groom's ring! She did it!

The day I met her parent's, her dad asked, "Where is it you are originally from?” I said, "Oh a little

place in McDowell County called Keystone". You have probably never heard of it. He said his sister

married a man from there. Turns out it was MY HUSBAND'S 1st cousin and his sister had been in my

home many times! I feel this was all meant to be for my connection with Bobbi and her family.

The day after her last day at school, I visited her at her home. She was in a coma. Her other two sisters

were in the room and for whatever reason we began talking about her life from the beginning up to the

accident. We took our turn around the room talking to her and when it came to the last comment from

her sister of, "it is ok Bobbi, you can let go now", she took her last breath.

[email protected] |

Her parents had a WHITE dogwood tree in their yard and the spring after she passed away there

was

During the time I had Bobbi as a student I always knew and really felt I

had made a difference in her life. After her death I then realized that it

was

Because of her I have grown as a Christian, teache

human being. She

and

Treasures



was ONE PURPLE bloom on the tree.



was Bobbi who made the difference in MY LIFE

Because of her I have grown as a Christian, teache

human being. She truly was the one to make a difference in my life

and those who had contact with her.

9393 (toll free)




MY LIFE.

Because of her I have grown as a Christian, teacher, mother and

one to make a difference in my life


Epiphany

If you live life by the book,

you will miss the point. Don’t

write your last chapter before

it is yours to have. Your story

will unfold in a way you never

could have written for

yourself.

“Heroes take journeys, confront dragons, and discover the treasure of their true selves.”

~ Carol Lynn Pearson

Susan’s Story:

I have often heard it said that “G-d doesn’t make mistakes”. And I suppose that I am living proof of

that!!

Fascinated with history and books, I saw myself, a born and bred Washingtonian, spending my adult

life dusting off and displaying historic treasures at one of the 19 venues of the revered Smithsonian

Institution.

G-d had other ideas. He sent me Beverly Resnick.

Needing to do community service for a high school honor society, I was all set to bus into downtown

Washington to “intern” at the Smithsonian. When with great energy, Beverly bounded up the

school hall and said with 1000 watt enthusiasm, “Come with me to the Jewish Home for Retarded

Children”, and then as if an afterthought, added “ and your father can pick us up on his way home

and we won’t have to take the bus home!” So I went, promising myself that next week I would get

to go to my dream job. The kids drooled, they needed diaper changes, they had trouble swallowing,

many were in wheelchairs, I got through the first encounter envisioning dusty books.

Next week came and again Beverly bounded up the hall and I knew I was a goner.

I went again to the “Jewish Home for Retarded Children”, and something

miraculous and so touching happened that I remember it today as new

as when it occurred. The previous week I had fed and played with a

little red-haired boy named Tyler. He didn’t speak, he didn’t make

eye contact, and I thought he didn’t even notice me. When I

walked in the following week I was greeted with a very loud,

painstakingly slow, “Hi Susan!” His aide said he had been

practicing all week. I cried and hugged and kissed him, and never

looked back.

I don’t dust off treasures in the Smithsonian. I do something much

better. I am honored to help the treasures with whom I work, find and

display their own personal inner riches.

Contributed by: Susan N. Schriber Orloff, OTR/L


Boost to Distinction

“They may forget what you said, but they will

never forget how you made them feel.”

~Carl W. Buechner

“Susan N. Schriber Orloff, OTR/L” is a parent of

children who learned differently.

Professionally, Susan is an author, advocate,

service provider, and business leader. Among

other accolades, Susan was awarded Outstanding

OT for 2006 by the Georgia Occupational Therapy

Association for her commitment to children who

have special needs.

Susan has helped develop several programs for

children who learn differently, including her

handwriting program entitled "W.I.N. - Write

Incredibly Now" and "Handwriting on the Wall"

through which she has developed a method of

applying a series of OT techniques which take

children (who have handwriting challenges) from

"labored" to "legible" in 12 sessions.

Children’s Special Services, LLC

www.childrens-services.com

OH THE CHILDREN I’VE MET

What is it I’ve seen?

Hopeful faces galore

Do you know what I mean?

Can’t write, Can’t ride, Can’t look, Won’t see

Shouting inside, “What’s the matter with me?”

So we enter into a journey

My new friend and I

Learning together

Guided by a Force in the sky

They try it, They do it,

Time after time

It’s not easy this mountain they’re destined to climb.

But upward

And onward

They do reach the top-

Having learned along the way

When to push, when to stop

But a stop’s just a rest

Of that they are sure

Going on they will

Knowing there’s more

Tasks learned/Skills achieved

They did it not me!

My part was so small,

This I ask you to see;

Just a booster of sorts…

As they learned to succeed!

Excerpt from Susan’s acceptance speech for

"Georgia Woman of Distinction" award

[email protected] |

As a parent, I am the constant. I

knew my son before today and I

will know him beyond tomorrow.

You might have him for a moment

of time. You are one of the

rainbow of people who will hold

out the next step on his journey.

As much as you will impact him,

he will change you. You see, he is

one of the rainbow of people on

your journey.

Dare to Imagine

“Only as high as I reach

I look can I see

Karen’s Story:

My middle son presented as deaf.

Four times a week, speech therapy was our destination. We used sign language and made up much

of our own nonverbal communication.

Nathan had supportive teachers through 5

develop hi

My journey in special education and

advocating for my children is not over.

youngest child is autistic and attends a specialized school.

This had made all the difference. Partnering with people who care so

much about the quality of my child’s life

replenishing. They dare to imagine

be…

Karen Monroy, Ph.D.; Teaching Sustainable P

www.karenmonroy.com


Only as high as I reach can I grow, only as far as I seek can I go, only as deep as

I look can I see, only as much as I dream can I be.”

~Karen Ravn

My middle son presented as deaf. Nathan started speech therapy when he was just two years old.


of our own nonverbal communication.

athan had supportive teachers through 5th

grade.

develop his skills and participate in school. Junior high was more

difficult. I really had to push for my son to receive the services

that were on his Individualized Education Plan. Nathan was not

finished with overcoming obstacles. It was a day of

celebration when he graduated from high school. You can

imagine my mother’s pride when Nathan recently graduated

from UMASS (University of Massachusetts). That two year

old little boy without words is now a university graduate.

I would say that without the services he received, he

wouldn’t have graduated from high school let alone college.

Oh by the way, he was not deaf. He could hear sound

couldn’t get on the frequency to tune all the other noise out!

My journey in special education and

ing for my children is not over. My

child is autistic and attends a specialized school.

This had made all the difference. Partnering with people who care so

much about the quality of my child’s life - present and future - is

re to imagine what my child will do, will have, will

; Teaching Sustainable Prosperity;

9393 (toll free)

can I grow, only as far as I seek can I go, only as deep as

ech therapy when he was just two years old.


grade. He continued to

s skills and participate in school. Junior high was more

difficult. I really had to push for my son to receive the services

that were on his Individualized Education Plan. Nathan was not

It was a day of

when he graduated from high school. You can

imagine my mother’s pride when Nathan recently graduated

from UMASS (University of Massachusetts). That two year

university graduate.

rvices he received, he

wouldn’t have graduated from high school let alone college.

Oh by the way, he was not deaf. He could hear sound – he just

to tune all the other noise out!

[email protected] |

“Don’t Cry, Mom. I’m With You”

L. Mae’s Blog: http://autismisnottheboss.com/

This afternoon’s festivities were supposed to include a

scouts were to graduate to Bear Cub

planned carefully to ensure that the event would be successful.

avoid the pre-ceremony commotion that always precedes a Pack me

advanced notice of how the ceremony would be followed by a picnic and then a hayride, and we

also agreed to allow him to take off his scouting uniform and

on pants and tag-less, button-less shirt,

Perhaps it was the garage sale the day before, or perhaps unstructured activity just isn’t in the stars

right now, but for whatever the reason, Connor took one look at the picnic area and another look at

the playground where other scouts were playing

home. NOW. And so back home we went.

We’ve left the scene hundreds of times before,

supposed to be fun, but for Connor,

And I blamed myself, Should we have arrived earlier rather than later?

these things. Should I have forced Connor to stay and accept responsibility?

signed him up for that social skills

planned. Maybe he’d be further along socially if he weren’t an only child.

welcome or worthy because he hasn’t been able

When we came home, I started preparing dinner.

son. So I hid my tears the best I could behind a simmering pot of spaghetti, Connor’s favorite Sunday

dish. But Connor doesn’t miss a thing.

and said, “Don’t Cry, Mom. I’m With You

himself. My petty worries were meaningless. My son knew better th

his travails, and yet, as he told me in


“Don’t Cry, Mom. I’m With You”

http://autismisnottheboss.com/

September 13th, 2009

My husband and I have been trying to engage our

Scouts for the past two years. Sometimes we think we are

making progress, and other times, like today, we ask ourselves

What were we thinking? Everyone involved with

scoutmaster, his wife (a parent educator),

other parents have bent over backward to support us, so

continue to have high hopes that Connor will find

develop friendships with peers.

ies were supposed to include a ceremony whereby our son and the other

graduate to Bear Cub status. Connor had finished his requirements ages ago,

planned carefully to ensure that the event would be successful. We decided to

ceremony commotion that always precedes a Pack meeting. We


also agreed to allow him to take off his scouting uniform and replace it with his customary pull

less shirt, immediately after the ceremony was finished.



other scouts were playing noisily on a life-sized pirate ship, and decided to go

home. NOW. And so back home we went.

We’ve left the scene hundreds of times before, forestalling many other social outings that

r Connor, were torture. Still, I really thought he was ready for this one.

we have arrived earlier rather than later? Timing is so important for

I have forced Connor to stay and accept responsibility? Perhaps

signed him up for that social skills course last summer, instead of waiting for next summer as

Maybe he’d be further along socially if he weren’t an only child. Maybe he doesn’t feel

welcome or worthy because he hasn’t been able practice conversation skills with a sibling.

When we came home, I started preparing dinner. Before I knew it, I began to cry.


Connor doesn’t miss a thing. As I was sniffling around the kitchen, Connor came up to me

I’m With You.” I felt as though I was staring into the eyes of Christ

My petty worries were meaningless. My son knew better than anyone else his difficulties,

his travails, and yet, as he told me in his next sentence “Mom, I’m happy. Don’t worry so much.”

9393 (toll free)

been trying to engage our son in Cub

Sometimes we think we are

making progress, and other times, like today, we ask ourselves

Everyone involved with the den – the

the scouts and the

ther parents have bent over backward to support us, so we

continue to have high hopes that Connor will find a place to

ceremony whereby our son and the other

shed his requirements ages ago, and we

arrive a little later to

gave Connor


replace it with his customary pull-

immediately after the ceremony was finished.



sized pirate ship, and decided to go

forestalling many other social outings that were

thought he was ready for this one.

Timing is so important for

haps I should’ve

course last summer, instead of waiting for next summer as

Maybe he doesn’t feel

practice conversation skills with a sibling.

Before I knew it, I began to cry. I was failing my


As I was sniffling around the kitchen, Connor came up to me

I felt as though I was staring into the eyes of Christ

an anyone else his difficulties,

happy. Don’t worry so much.”


IEP Serenity Wish

“Serenity is not freedom from the storm, but peace amid the storm”

~author unknown

L. Mae’s Blog: http://autismisnottheboss.com/

May the Great IEP Wizard Grant Me:

The strength to help my son change what

can be changed through a combination of

effective and thoughtful programs,

teachers, therapists and compensatory

strategies.

The courage to ignore those behavioral

issues that drive me crazy, but will likely

disappear on their own and/or didn’t

matter in the first place.

The wisdom to know the difference so

that I don’t drive my son crazy, thereby

increasing my chances that he might

actually come to

visit me in the nursing home (preferably

accompanied by at least one grandchild)

during my sunset years.

I simply cannot let autism become the boss of me, my son or my family. It will not stand in

the way of teaching my son the social skills, communication skills and abilities to make his

own good choices and healthy relationships and consequently, his own success in life. He

will understand how not to be a victim. And I shall not fail. To do so would be to consign

my son to a life without options, and I never want him to feel trapped in a situation that

he never bargained for.

I wish I were smart enough to find a cure for autism, but I’m not. That only leaves one

thing: good old fashioned parenting. Because I am going to raise my son, not fix him.

L. Mae


I Don’t See It That Way

"Cherish your vision and your dreams as they are the children of your soul;

the blueprints of your ultimate achievements."

~Napoleon Hill

Your Friend’s Story:

I know that people consider problems learning, reading and writing as Learning Disabilities. I don’t

see it that way.

The reality is we are all abnormal creatures in a very abnormal world with a unique perspective of

the world, with great new ideas.

I was born with a vision problem known as Amblyopia (more

commonly known as a lazy eye) and Stigmatism. Unknown to

most, I was also born with a small hearing impairment, and

after many years of struggling with school and college, then

being mis- diagnosed by a person as having Auditory

Processing Disorder (which I don’t have); I was diagnosed

with Irlen’s Syndrome (another Eye condition).

To best explain these words, my hearing problem involves not

hearing most sibilant sounds (i.e. “s”), and most lower spoken

words (males talking, and lower females voices). I miss much

of what they are saying. My vision problems are that I have a lazy eye (It has a mind all of its own).

Irlen’s Syndrome is considered to be a sensitivity to light, (but also colour). To me, I have viewed it

as the perfect opposite to being Colour Blind. I see way too much colour. My eyes are more likely

to wander with Irlen Syndrome, and I skip words when reading. When I read sheet music, the lines

move, the notes change places, and boxes on pages change shape.

When writing on ruled paper, I may skip lines because I don’t see them, just like when I read. Words

can float

; ggglllooowww and be blacked . The rest of a page can be dancing with black spots turning pretty

purple, then a funny orange/yellow grey, then float around a page, far more interesting to watch

than to read the page or paper I have been asked to read. I also would be easily distracted from

other children tapping a pencil on a desk beside me, or some other movement activity beside me.

My eye problems that Irlen’s Syndrome and my hearing problem are both located in the same part

of the brain, which is where why I can look like and fail a Audio Processing Disorder test. Some of

the same products that they use to treat Audio Processing Disorder could be a benefit to me only if

the Irlen’s Syndrome is properly treated. Since it is a costly thing to treat, it really is unlikely that

any hearing things will be a full benefit to me.

I see (problems) as a different

perspective and one should

think about a learning

environment that fits the

child/student, without a label

attached.

~a friend

[email protected] |

I struggled in school to read; write, and do most of my homework. I

homework at home from an older sibling and turning it in without d

assignment, and never once caught at this method, all book reports were my own, but the reading

assignments from most books in English and history were copies of another sibling. This was really

necessary, as after a long day at s

writing, on the glaring white pages. The reality is that my notes were rarely readable. I did pass

Grade 12, and go on. School and reading will always be a challenge for me but

and won’t give up. When working on the computer, I use a special function in Microsoft Windows

2007 that helps me to read more easily. Go to Page Layout and select a Page Color.

I think the thing that helped me the most was that I had

problems my eyes or hearing had created and never really cared. I lived for the weekend and visits

with relatives with pets or other animals, as that was my comfort zone. The other area I do have a

great gift for in is patience because people rarely had any with me. I also have more tolerance for

others that have problems because of my own. I also gained a lot of

problems as I have to be the person to

have Auditory Processing disorder, and have been successful in that, I got this from fighting my way

through the school systems, and proving that I could pass regular classes.

It always amazed me at how the dogs would take their place

side (my hearing and vision problems are greater disadvantage on that

side); even when the dogs have not been trained for special needs. If I

visit a friend now and they have a dog, it too seems to take up the left

side, even if I walk around

me, after two steps it will wait and rejoin at my left side.

I have a great pet Rabbit, Teanna, who is a big part of my life right now, and

does some of the strangest things to help lighten up the mood.

I am now 35 years old, and I have two areas that have interested me since

high school: psychology and music. I have some university in both of these

areas, and hope someday, even if I am 80 or older, can complete these

degrees. For this return to school, I

better help myself and others understand what I have and what will help me

be a success in school.

To learn more about Irlen’s syndrome and to experience sample visual distortions, visit:

http://irlen.com/distortioneffects.php


I struggled in school to read; write, and do most of my homework. I survived school by copying

homework at home from an older sibling and turning it in without doing many of the reading



necessary, as after a long day at school I would have a headache from reading the boards, and


Grade 12, and go on. School and reading will always be a challenge for me but

When working on the computer, I use a special function in Microsoft Windows


I think the thing that helped me the most was that I had animals to play with, they didn’t see the

my eyes or hearing had created and never really cared. I lived for the weekend and visits


ce because people rarely had any with me. I also have more tolerance for

others that have problems because of my own. I also gained a lot of strength from having so many

problems as I have to be the person to stand up for myself. I did have to fight to


through the school systems, and proving that I could pass regular classes.

It always amazed me at how the dogs would take their place




side, even if I walk around the dog so the dog is on the right side of


I have a great pet Rabbit, Teanna, who is a big part of my life right now, and

does some of the strangest things to help lighten up the mood.

now 35 years old, and I have two areas that have interested me since

high school: psychology and music. I have some university in both of these

areas, and hope someday, even if I am 80 or older, can complete these

degrees. For this return to school, I have a better understanding of how to

better help myself and others understand what I have and what will help me


http://irlen.com/distortioneffects.php

9393 (toll free)

school by copying

oing many of the reading



chool I would have a headache from reading the boards, and


Grade 12, and go on. School and reading will always be a challenge for me but I haven’t given up,

When working on the computer, I use a special function in Microsoft Windows


they didn’t see the

my eyes or hearing had created and never really cared. I lived for the weekend and visits


ce because people rarely had any with me. I also have more tolerance for

from having so many

for myself. I did have to fight to prove that I don’t


It always amazed me at how the dogs would take their place on my left




the dog so the dog is on the right side of



[email protected] |

Ability is the triumph

over disability.

I Just Am

“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When

through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.

Bryan’ Story:

At 23 years old, Bryan is a published author. On the website for his book

"I have a disability. It is not my fault.

me to his website: www.ijustam.org

An avid sports enthusiast, Bryan was just eig

for the first time in the track and field events of the Illinois Special

Olympics. Fourteen years later, he stood atop the

the 2003 International Special Olympics in Dublin, Ireland. While in

Ireland, he

reconsider their own perceptions of a person with a ‘disability’.

Besides travelling the world and winning goal medals, Bryan holds two jobs.

He sorts x-rays for shredding and works as a greeter at

dreams. He dreams of getting a driver's license, living on his own, and being married. He continues

to participate in Special Olympics and especially enjoys bowling, swimming, and basketball.

His incredible book, I JUST AM…a Story of Down Syndrome

Awareness and Tolerance, is about how Bryan perceives

himself and his disability. Bryan shares his book with

schools and groups to educate the public, while also trying

to change some misconceptions others have about Down

syndrome. Bryan’s inspiring book will touch your heart

and leave footprints on your soul that you will not forget.

Special Olympics athletes are spokespersons for freedom

itself - they ask for the freedom to live, the freedom to

belong, the freedom to contribute, the freedom to have a

chance. And, of all the values that unite and inspire us to

seek a better world, no value holds a higher place than the

value of freedom. ~Eunice Kennedy Shriver


Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When

through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.

~ Arnold Schwarzenegger

At 23 years old, Bryan is a published author. On the website for his book, I JUST AM

"I have a disability. It is not my fault. I just am." His dad told me about his triumphant

www.ijustam.org

An avid sports enthusiast, Bryan was just eight years old when he competed


Olympics. Fourteen years later, he stood atop the winner's platform


Ireland, he and his father spoke to congress and inspired people to


esides travelling the world and winning goal medals, Bryan holds two jobs.

rays for shredding and works as a greeter at the Chandler AMF Bowling Center

of getting a driver's license, living on his own, and being married. He continues


JUST AM…a Story of Down Syndrome

is about how Bryan perceives

himself and his disability. Bryan shares his book with

schools and groups to educate the public, while also trying

to change some misconceptions others have about Down

. Bryan’s inspiring book will touch your heart

and leave footprints on your soul that you will not forget.

Special Olympics athletes are spokespersons for freedom

they ask for the freedom to live, the freedom to

contribute, the freedom to have a

chance. And, of all the values that unite and inspire us to

seek a better world, no value holds a higher place than the

value of freedom. ~Eunice Kennedy Shriver

9393 (toll free)

Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go

through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.”

UST AM, Bryan affirmed,

triumphant story and led

ht years old when he competed


winner's platform at


and his father spoke to congress and inspired people to


esides travelling the world and winning goal medals, Bryan holds two jobs.

wling Center. He

of getting a driver's license, living on his own, and being married. He continues


[email protected] |

Just See Me

“You can be a leader too.

Marnee’s Note: Early this year, I wrote a blog about Robert. I have included

Tears fell and my heart danced.

fellow visionary, Robert Pio Hajjar.

He is th

enriching the lives of intellectually disabled individuals and groups.

year, he was the inspiring opening speaker at the

Conference 2009.

dedicated to enhancing our communities through one

between individuals with intellectual disabilities and students.

Robert has a

some time and donated all of it to start IDEAL

IDEAL: Included Deserving Equal

Robert urged his audience to know that “the only time you can’t do something is if you never try”.

He explained amazing results are possible when we experience

opportunity. Considering his own accomplishments with achieving his goals, he asked the

audience, “Have you ever wanted to be a part of something? Do you have a vision?

for what you believe in? Do you have a purpose?”

Robert is an inspiration. He is changing perceptions and giving

hope. He is an incredible, devoted individual who is changing

lives and fostering a community of support and spirit. He is

bringing people to their feet to dance, dance,

needs more Roberts.

“When I was born, the doctors told my parents to put me

away.”

It was Robert’s parents who knew their son, who was born with

Down Syndrome, had a great purpose in life.

voice, he is the believer, he is the tea

Update: The Planning Group for the City of Toronto's 2009 International Day for People with Disabilities has awarded

Robert one of six Unsung Heroes awards

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROWbyKVLYr8


As I stand here, I see

everyone as an equal.


you as my friend.

How do you see me?

See me first, and then

my disability.

…or just see me.

“You can be a leader too. Leadership is attitude you develop.”

~Robert Pio Hajjar

Marnee’s Note: Early this year, I wrote a blog about Robert. I have included part of it here.

Tears fell and my heart danced. I watched an amazing pep talk from a

fellow visionary, Robert Pio Hajjar.

He is the founding director of IDEAL-WAY.ca, which is dedicated to

enriching the lives of intellectually disabled individuals and groups.

year, he was the inspiring opening speaker at the Best Buddies

Conference 2009. Best Buddies Canada is a non-profit organization

dedicated to enhancing our communities through one


Robert has a vision for his organization. In fact, he had saved money for

f it to start IDEAL-WAY.ca. He is committed to helping others feel

qual Appreciated Loved


ults are possible when we experience love, encouragement, and

Considering his own accomplishments with achieving his goals, he asked the

audience, “Have you ever wanted to be a part of something? Do you have a vision?

Do you have a purpose?”

He is changing perceptions and giving

He is an incredible, devoted individual who is changing

lives and fostering a community of support and spirit. He is

r feet to dance, dance, DANCE. The world

“When I was born, the doctors told my parents to put me

~Robert

It was Robert’s parents who knew their son, who was born with

, had a great purpose in life. Now Robert is the

voice, he is the believer, he is the teacher.


Robert one of six Unsung Heroes awards!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROWbyKVLYr8 http://www.ideal-way.ca/

9393 (toll free)


everyone as an equal.


you as my friend.

How do you see me?

See me first, and then

my disability.

…or just see me.

~Robert

tude you develop.”

it here.

I watched an amazing pep talk from a

WAY.ca, which is dedicated to

enriching the lives of intellectually disabled individuals and groups. This

Best Buddies Regional

rofit organization

dedicated to enhancing our communities through one-to-one friendships


In fact, he had saved money for

He is committed to helping others feel IDEAL.


love, encouragement, and

Considering his own accomplishments with achieving his goals, he asked the

audience, “Have you ever wanted to be a part of something? Do you have a vision? Do you stand up


way.ca/

[email protected] |

I see your true colors

shining through

…

So don't be afraid to

let them show…

Your true colors

are beautiful,

like a rainbow

~ True Colors Sung

By Cyndi Lauper

Miracles Found In Art

“Another word for creativity is courage

Bailey’s Story:

I am a fiber artist with a 25 yr

background in Occupational Therapy.

work as an artist-in-residence in special

education classes. I am passionate about

the power of using art to teach these kids

and have seen many ‘miracles’.

It is so important for children with

disabilities to have art experiences as a

way to learn their academic lessons.

Teaching academics through art provides

the children an opportunity to process

the information through multiple

senses. It provides a concrete practical experience of the concepts. It summarizes, reviews,

reinforces academic lessons in a stress

and occupational therapist, I’ve dedicated my life to

through art.

love to tell you about one of them.

I was working in a special education classroom of third, fourth, and fifth

graders.

character.

traits all semester. I was brought in to create a quilt with them that

would hang in the school hallway.

a sewing machine.

children with autism are dra

machine.

One y

about his experience.

of his autism, his communication tended to be based around personal

needs.

her, he began pantomiming about sewing.


Another word for creativity is courage”

~ George Prince

in Occupational Therapy. I

residence in special

I am passionate about

the power of using art to teach these kids

It is so important for children with

iences as a

way to learn their academic lessons.

Teaching academics through art provides

the children an opportunity to process

multiple

It provides a concrete practical experience of the concepts. It summarizes, reviews,

reinforces academic lessons in a stress-free, non-threatening environment. As a professional artist

and occupational therapist, I’ve dedicated my life to empowering children and adults with disabilities

through art. Over the years I have witnessed many

love to tell you about one of them.


graders. We were creating a quilt on the topic of the pillars of

character. The children had been learning about positi


would hang in the school hallway. I love to get the children sewing on

a sewing machine. They really enjoyed this aspect of the project.

children with autism are drawn to the lights and the rhythm of the

machine.

One young man was so excited, he felt compelled to tell his teacher

about his experience. He had very limited verbal skills and, because


eds. He rushed down the hall to find his teacher.

her, he began pantomiming about sewing. She didn’t understand what he was trying to

9393 (toll free)

It provides a concrete practical experience of the concepts. It summarizes, reviews, and

threatening environment. As a professional artist

and adults with disabilities

y miracles. I would


We were creating a quilt on the topic of the pillars of

The children had been learning about positive character


I love to get the children sewing on

They really enjoyed this aspect of the project. The

and the rhythm of the

, he felt compelled to tell his teacher

He had very limited verbal skills and, because


He rushed down the hall to find his teacher. When he found

She didn’t understand what he was trying to


communicate. This young man didn’t give up because he really wanted her to know about what he

had experienced.

He grabbed her hand and led her back to the classroom to show her the work he had done. His

overwhelming joy, enthusiasm and relentless desire to connect and communicate with someone,

was completely uncharacteristic for this young man.

Months later, when I returned to the classroom unannounced, activity stopped and everyone chimed

in, “Mrs. Earith, you helped us make a quilt!” They were still able to recall my name and the project

details enthusiastically without prompting!

Art requires no speech, yet it speaks an international language that connects

us. Art is the keeper of stories.

Bailey specializes in providing art opportunities to people with disabilities in the special education

classroom and in the

community. She travels the

country, training parents

and professionals how to

use art to teach academics

and address IEP goals.

Bailey has been published

extensively in magazines

and books for both her

studio and artist-in-

residence work.

Blog:

www.disability-art.blogspot.com

Website:

www.BaileyFiberArt.com

“I feel it is very important for everyone to give back to the

community in which they live. I believe everyone has

something of value to offer others regardless of ability. And,

as I teach my students, when giving to others you get back

tenfold.” ~Bailey


The Songbird’s Advocacy

Crow: Why is it that you wake

up each day and sing?

Songbird: I sing for those who

cannot – my song gives flight

to their dreams.

My Vision

“I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I

cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do something that I can do.”

~ Helen Keller

Donna’s Story:

Donna was born blind; however she has a vision and mission that will change the way we see. While

she was in school during the 1950’s, teachers either felt she was making up her vision challenge or

they would not let her participate. Ultimately, she experienced bullying. Donna started writing

songs when she was fourteen, then taught herself to play guitar. It was not until she was in

university that she taught herself Braille and received a guide dog.

Fast forward to the present, Donna is a role model in so many ways. She has overcome adversity

and conquered her amazing goals. As a motivational speaker, she encourages kids to believe in

themselves and their dreams. As living proof, she talks to them about how she has far exceeded

what others suspected she would. Donna is also a song writer, singer, and recording artist.

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/donnahill. In addition to recording her own albums, one of her songs

was selected for the CD called Sound in Sight. All songs were recorded by promising blind recording

artists (www.padnfb.org).

Triumphant in the face of adversity, Donna survived breast

cancer twice thanks to self exams.

Moving forward, Donna has been a relentless advocate

for the rights of people who have vision impairment.

A large part of this advocacy includes educating the

public and supporting people who live with a visual

challenge.

[email protected] |

Urging schools to respond to how necessary learning Braille is, Donna writes,

“Only ten percent of our blind kids are taught to read and write

Braille, which is the only tool offering true literacy to people

cannot read print. This is down from fifty percent in the sixties. It

affects employability and is contributing to the seventy percent

unemployment rate among working

thirty percent who do work, however, over eighty

Braille.”

Congress recognized the problem when they authorized the

production of the Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar (released

March 26, 2009), the proceeds of which support the Braille Readers

are Leaders campaign of the National Federation

www.braille.org

NASA, which has a long-standing relationship with the NFB

collaborating on innovative methods for teaching science, tried to draw attention to the problem by


Urging schools to respond to how necessary learning Braille is, Donna writes,

“Only ten percent of our blind kids are taught to read and write

Braille, which is the only tool offering true literacy to people who

cannot read print. This is down from fifty percent in the sixties. It

affects employability and is contributing to the seventy percent

unemployment rate among working-age blind Americans. Of the

thirty percent who do work, however, over eighty percent read

Congress recognized the problem when they authorized the

production of the Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar (released

March 26, 2009), the proceeds of which support the Braille Readers

are Leaders campaign of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB):

standing relationship with the NFB


taking two of the Braille coins along on Atlantis's last

mission to repair the Hubble telescope.

For the reasons this is happening and what is being done

about it, you might be interested in my series of articles on

the Braille literacy crisis for American Chronicle. I would

especially recommend "Braille Literacy: Lessons from a

Right-Handed World" and "Braille: for the Love of

Reading." They can all be accessed from my author's page

at: www.americanchronicle.com/auth

programmed to believe that

the people who overcome

obstacles are those who

never doubt that they will

and are never afraid.

Most of us, however,

stumble, fall and pick

ourselves up again and

again on ou

through life’s road

9393 (toll free)


e coins along on Atlantis's last

mission to repair the Hubble telescope.

For the reasons this is happening and what is being done

about it, you might be interested in my series of articles on

the Braille literacy crisis for American Chronicle. I would

cially recommend "Braille Literacy: Lessons from a

Handed World" and "Braille: for the Love of

Reading." They can all be accessed from my author's page

www.americanchronicle.com/authors/view/3885”

Many of us are

programmed to believe that

the people who overcome

obstacles are those who

never doubt that they will

and are never afraid.

Most of us, however,

stumble, fall and pick

ourselves up again and

again on our journey

through life’s road-blocks.

~Donna Hill

[email protected] |

If you could see yourself

the way I see you, you

would stand atop a

mountain and sing your

song to the world…

Nashville Bound

“If you cannot teach me to fly, teach me to

Veronica’s Story:

I have a student now who is blind

He is gifted musically. He sings like a country singer,

marches with our high school band, p

play other instruments as well.

encouraging him to major in music and head to Nashville. He is in the

9th grade and I am having a ball with him!

Camon was recently celebrated on the front p

Gazette. The story highlights his amazing spirit and incredible talents. It

shares how proud his parents are of their son, which has worn off of Camon. The story reads:

"You'll see me up on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry someday,

I'm going to sing loud and proud so the audience can hear me…”

http://dailymail.com/News/statenews/200910290908


If you cannot teach me to fly, teach me to sing.”

~ James Matthew Barrie

is blind. He is the happiest kid I have ever been around. He is amazing!

He is gifted musically. He sings like a country singer, loves an audience,

marches with our high school band, plays the trumpet and piano.

play other instruments as well. I am working with parents and


9th grade and I am having a ball with him!

Camon was recently celebrated on the front page of the Charleston



"You'll see me up on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry someday," …"I'm going to get up there, and

I'm going to sing loud and proud so the audience can hear me…”

http://dailymail.com/News/statenews/200910290908

Photo by Bob Wojcieszak

9393 (toll free)

is the happiest kid I have ever been around. He is amazing!

loves an audience,

lays the trumpet and piano. He can

I am working with parents and


age of the Charleston



" …"I'm going to get up there, and

Bob Wojcieszak


Unlocking Potential

“Free the child's potential, and you will transform him into the world”

~ Maria Montessori

David’s story:

I work with special needs young people who have dyslexia. I help them overcome their difficulties in

reading, writing, speaking and thinking clearly, and focusing their attention. Dyslexia is not just a

learning disability. It carries with it enormous emotional frustration, shame, and lack of self-worth.

I relate to these young people for I too live with dyslexia.

Every once in a while I get the privilege of working with a young person who is so ready to make

major changes not only in their reading and writing, but to their relationship to their life in general.

When 8 year old Jordan first came to my office for a dyslexia assessment, he was extremely quiet.

He barely looked at me. His hair covered his eyes, his shoulders were slouched down and he

answered questions minimally, mostly “yes” or “no.” When it came to the reading part of the

assessment, he quickly put his head down on his folded arms on the table and in a loud firm voice

exclaimed, “No … I won’t read!” His mom sitting behind us put her head down and sadly shook her

head. Quietly, I moved around the table and sat next to Jordan. “If I read with you would that

help?” Jordan looked up at me. There were tears in his eyes. He looked directly at me for a time and

then said, “Maybe …” “Ok, we will share the reading… I will start, okay?” I picked the simplest,

most visually-based page among the reading choices. I told him a bit about the story we were going

to read. I started and then I urged him to read the words. He struggled tremendously. He was hardly

able to get through most words.

We started with the basic alphabet. He was unable to write or speak a large majority of the letters:

There were lots of reversals and confusion with them. He would mix up the sound of a letter with its

name. I am sure he had proper instruction in school; it just was not very well suited to Jordan’s

thinking style, which was mostly a visually-based thinking process.

One day I decided to take him for a walk to the shopping center next to my office. As we walked I

asked him what his favorite stores were. Without hesitation he pointed to the video game store. He

saw the name of one of his favorite video games on the store window with a bunch of writing under

it. “What does that say?” he asked. “How about if we do the reading exercise together on that?”

Jordon moved quickly towards the window. Slowly, we did a particular reading exercise that helps

to ensure the person is seeing and saying each letter in a word and tracking his eyes across the word

left to right. Usually this exercise is done in my office, on a page on which we use a large index card

to draw across the letters one at a time. But what the heck, I thought. We walked up to the writing

on the window, my hand becoming the card, and we did the reading exercise right there in front of

the store with people watching us wondering what we were doing. Jordan made good progress that

day! He read a number of signs in the mall that were of interest to him. He was viably excited about

his newfound skill.

[email protected] |

The Birth of a Butterfly

I have always wanted to fly.

I will cease being a caterpillar.

Embraced by wings, I shall soar.

Several weeks after the initial program, I got a call from Jordon’s teacher.

just shy but actually a very energetic young person. That cork on his energy was a result of

frustration and shame regarding reading and writing.

Jordon and I worked one morning together on writing a simple story. We slowly but steadily worked

on a way for him to get an idea of what he wanted to write about (rock climbing!), and I helped him

with a way to sequence all the various a

dyslexic individuals). When we finished writing the three paragraphs of this story, Jordon briskly put

his pencil down on the table and

he very proudly showed then his writing. Then he said in a loud voice “

took several tries for him to get all of the words right. The last reading was almost a play, with

Jordon as writer, actor and director!

It is a success story like Jordon’s that make all the hard work with dyslexic young people that I do

completely worth it. Beneath all of the complication, shame, struggle, and behavioral issues with

these young people, there are undoubtedly very intelligent, creative, motivated, and immensely

talented human beings. I have the fortunate job of helping to facilitate the

potential!

David Rosen helped to establish one of the first alternative

therapy centers in Sacramento, specializing in non

therapies. He is a Licensed Davis Dyslexia Correction®

Facilitator, one of the most widely used

programs world-wide.

http://www.mydyslexiasolutions.com/TheFacilitator.html


Several weeks after the initial program, I got a call from Jordon’s teacher. The teacher told me. “I

have never seen this in him. This is quite interesting and

wonderful to see what is opening up for Jordan. I have never

seen him so excited about learning!” A few weeks later I got

another call from Jordan’s teacher. “Well, David, something

interesting happened today with Jordan. He was trying to do a

project in the classroom and several students next to him were

talking very loudly. Without any notice, Jordan yelled at the top

of his lungs “Be quiet!!!” There was a dead silence in the room.

This was so uncharacteristic of Jordon’s behavior. Then in a roll

which spread throughout the classroom, everybody started first

giggling, then laughing, and finally clapping. Even Jordan smiled

and enjoyed the whole event.” Somehow this

or breakthrough had open up Jordan’s energy. In fact, he was not

just shy but actually a very energetic young person. That cork on his energy was a result of

frustration and shame regarding reading and writing.



with a way to sequence all the various aspects of this subject (sequencing can be very difficult with


his pencil down on the table and proudly smiled ear to ear. When his parents came to pick him up

he very proudly showed then his writing. Then he said in a loud voice “Wanna hear me read


riter, actor and director!

story like Jordon’s that make all the hard work with dyslexic young people that I do


undoubtedly very intelligent, creative, motivated, and immensely

talented human beings. I have the fortunate job of helping to facilitate the unlocking of all that

David Rosen helped to establish one of the first alternative

rs in Sacramento, specializing in non-verbal

therapies. He is a Licensed Davis Dyslexia Correction®

one of the most widely used dyslexia correction

ttp://www.mydyslexiasolutions.com/TheFacilitator.html

9393 (toll free)

he teacher told me. “I

his is quite interesting and

wonderful to see what is opening up for Jordan. I have never

A few weeks later I got

“Well, David, something

interesting happened today with Jordan. He was trying to do a

project in the classroom and several students next to him were

notice, Jordan yelled at the top

of his lungs “Be quiet!!!” There was a dead silence in the room.

This was so uncharacteristic of Jordon’s behavior. Then in a roll

which spread throughout the classroom, everybody started first

finally clapping. Even Jordan smiled

omehow this newfound ability

had open up Jordan’s energy. In fact, he was not

just shy but actually a very energetic young person. That cork on his energy was a result of his



ing can be very difficult with


. When his parents came to pick him up,

Wanna hear me read it?” It


story like Jordon’s that make all the hard work with dyslexic young people that I do


undoubtedly very intelligent, creative, motivated, and immensely

unlocking of all that

[email protected] |

Care Provider’s Wish

Show me all the magic in this little

child today

Bring me all the treasures that will

help him find his way

He and I will find a trick for him to

sing out loud

And fly his little wings; to shine

among the fluffy clouds

When Life Seems Out of Tune, Sing

“A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer, it sings beca

Joaline’s Story:

One of my clients was a very special pre

very little verbal utterances at the beginning of my work with him,

but he never failed to amaze me with his smiles when I would sing

songs to him and his intent gaze into my eyes when he would say

"JOOOOALINE" (He always dragged out my name and it made my

heart smile!!! What a joy


Show me all the magic in this little

Bring me all the treasures that will

He and I will find a trick for him to

little wings; to shine

When Life Seems Out of Tune, Sing

A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.

~ Maya Angelou

One of my clients was a very special pre-school child who had autism. We were trying so hard to

potty train him, but he had a great deal of t

seated for any length of time. He had a love of any music

and we often used my MP3 in order to entertain him, but

sometimes we didn't have the MP3. So we had to be

creative and act fast. So I began singing songs to him in

order to make him more interested in remaining on the

potty and doing his business. So I started singing "It's my

POTTY and I'll pee if I want too, you would pee too if you

were seated here too!!!" He loved it and remained seated.

Then I added new songs to my potty reper

myself singing "Potty like a Rock Star" and "Potty for Two”.

Soon Mom was joining in as

were all the other

individuals working with this

little musical angel. He had

very little verbal utterances at the beginning of my work with him,

ut he never failed to amaze me with his smiles when I would sing

songs to him and his intent gaze into my eyes when he would say

"JOOOOALINE" (He always dragged out my name and it made my

What a joy!!!!

9393 (toll free)

use it has a song.”

school child who had autism. We were trying so hard to

potty train him, but he had a great deal of trouble remaining

seated for any length of time. He had a love of any music

and we often used my MP3 in order to entertain him, but

sometimes we didn't have the MP3. So we had to be

creative and act fast. So I began singing songs to him in

m more interested in remaining on the

potty and doing his business. So I started singing "It's my

POTTY and I'll pee if I want too, you would pee too if you

were seated here too!!!" He loved it and remained seated.

Then I added new songs to my potty repertoire. I soon found

myself singing "Potty like a Rock Star" and "Potty for Two”.


Windows to the Soul

“Run your fingers through my soul. For once, just one, feel exactly what I feel, believe what I believe, perceive

as I perceive, look, experience, examine, and for once, just once, understand.”

~author unknown

Susan’s Story:

This is a story about how changing handwriting can affect self-esteem and general life skill

competencies.

Cameron was a 14-year-old rising 9th grader in the Georgia Public Schools. Testing indicated that he

was bright, but he was failing. He was slightly built with fine wavy blonde hair and a winning smile,

when it could be coaxed. When it couldn’t he was defeated, angry, and enormously sad. He was

ready to run, and in fact did. After less than 5 minutes he stormed out of the clinic only to return a

few minutes later. We did nothing that first day but talk. I told him about my own children and their

struggles, I talked about things I found hard to learn, and most of all I assured him that I would not

give up, get angry, or shame him, ever.

He entered the program emotionally resistive, shut down, defeated, angry, and totally suspicious of

anyone who said they could help him. After all, he “made it to 14 ok,” why couldn’t people just be

happy with the way he was and leave him alone?

Although Cameron had a diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and compulsive

disorder, he didn’t qualify for school-based occupational therapy. His parents opted to try private

therapy outside of school. At 14 Cameron had no functional handwriting, and his number

production was worse. This frustrated and confused both his parents and his teachers, who saw

Cameron as a child with above-average intelligence.

Many who interacted with him had written him off as a “kid who didn’t care.” In fact, when I first

met him it would have been easy to agree, except for the sadness in his eyes.

If it is true that the “eyes are the windows to the soul,” then Cameron’s “windows” were clouded

with confusion. How to reach a boy who needed so much help, but resisted it with an intensity that

matched the need? He talked tough, he stormed out, and yet he listened. He listened to the promise

that I wouldn’t be scared away by his brash behavior, and that my faith in him was stronger than his

fear of trying. What teachers didn’t understand was that behind the “so what” façade was a young

man who really did care deeply, but was afraid of success—having learned all too well how to fail.

Treatment began with a lot of talking—mine, not his. Validating his feelings that he was too fearful

to verbalize helped him to trust that I wasn’t going away, and that I thought it was okay for him not

to want to talk. Slowly mumbles became smiles and smiles became sentences and sentences turned

into conversations.

And so we started. Meeting force with force; resistance with structure; fear with encouragement,

we met twice a week for 6 weeks. It was the end of school, and summer was coming. The goal was

to show him how he could prove “them” wrong by the start of the next school year.

[email protected] |

Therapy began with one small success at a time. Cameron could n

a hula hoop (in an unconventional way), dribbling in a pattern, and playing jacks and other games

was going to help his handwriting, but he went along with it. He was a young man who prided

himself on keeping his word.

Unlike traditional writing programs that start with tracing, reproducing, and repeating basic letters

on paper or other mediums, Cameron’s therapy was based on my “Handwriting on the Wall, Write

Incredibly Now™ Program.” We started by building on familiar, th

motor patterns that mirrored the patterns needed to sit at a table and write legibly and coherently.

For the first month, Cameron did not pick up anything that resembled a pencil, pen, crayon, or

marker. Instead he learned shoulder stability and simultaneous wrist flexion (which is needed to sit

and write) by learning to “skim” a hula

adapted game of basketball. He learned how to have a dynamic tripod grasp by spinning tops a

jacks. He learned bilateral coordination by playing with jacks that he had set in motion. He learned

to juggle, first scarves, then hacky

flow patterns that he could accurately reproduce

internal body sensations as he increased his trust in himself.

His first “honest” remark in therapy was that he “hated his hands.” Indeed he kept them shoved in

his pockets when he wasn’t engaged in a s

gross and fine motor activities, he learned that it wasn’t his hands that were the problem, but a

disconnect between what he saw in his mind and what he produced on paper. By “playing games”

he learned to trust his body to move with greater fluidity. As his proprioceptive and kinesthetic

abilities increased, so did his confidence; and to his own surprise, so did his ability to have fun, both

in the clinic and at home.

By the time a piece of chalk was

letters were automatic and the words just began to flow. And, in late summer when he went to

meet his new teachers for the upcoming school year, he even reported that he thought his teacher

“liked him better.” What was really happening was that

Cameron’s story was written by:

Susan Orloff, OTR/L; CEO/Executive Director;

Children's Special Services, LLC ,

[email protected] www.childrens


Therapy began with one small success at a time. Cameron could not understand how learning to use



ike traditional writing programs that start with tracing, reproducing, and repeating basic letters


Incredibly Now™ Program.” We started by building on familiar, then introducing novel repeated



oulder stability and simultaneous wrist flexion (which is needed to sit

and write) by learning to “skim” a hula-hoop across the room. He learned sequencing from an

adapted game of basketball. He learned how to have a dynamic tripod grasp by spinning tops a


to juggle, first scarves, then hacky-sacks, then tennis balls. After all of this, he learned shapes and

flow patterns that he could accurately reproduce, even with his eyes closed. He learned to trust his

internal body sensations as he increased his trust in himself.


his pockets when he wasn’t engaged in a specific activity. Through increased successes with both



to move with greater fluidity. As his proprioceptive and kinesthetic


put in Cameron’s hand, the shapes and forms that comprise all the


meet his new teachers for the upcoming school year, he even reported that he thought his teacher

“liked him better.” What was really happening was that Cameron was learning to like himself.

Susan Orloff, OTR/L; CEO/Executive Director;

www.childrens-services.com

9393 (toll free)

ot understand how learning to use



ike traditional writing programs that start with tracing, reproducing, and repeating basic letters


en introducing novel repeated



oulder stability and simultaneous wrist flexion (which is needed to sit

hoop across the room. He learned sequencing from an

adapted game of basketball. He learned how to have a dynamic tripod grasp by spinning tops and


sacks, then tennis balls. After all of this, he learned shapes and

, even with his eyes closed. He learned to trust his


pecific activity. Through increased successes with both



to move with greater fluidity. As his proprioceptive and kinesthetic


put in Cameron’s hand, the shapes and forms that comprise all the


meet his new teachers for the upcoming school year, he even reported that he thought his teachers

Cameron was learning to like himself.

[email protected] |

How Far Do You Want to Go?

My father said, "You do what your

mother says!"

And I stood up, looked him in both

eyes, and said

“…I'm running away from home!"

And my father lifted me up over his

head, and said,

"How far do you want to go?"

He didn't know I was THEE Bill Cosby.

~Bill Cosby about being eleven in the

projects

Word of Encouragement

Praise is like sunlight to the human spirit

Derrick’s Story:

I have worked with youth with speci

Officer. As a Teacher’s Aide, I worked with the

Derrick is a motivational speaker and encourages

teens to “Use your skills or someone else will”. Among multiple achievements, he is the creator of

the WOE concept ("Give Someone

trials and tribulations. Derrick has authored a book called

www.derrickhayes.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6NTc0rwuA4


How Far Do You Want to Go?

My father said, "You do what your

And I stood up, looked him in both

“…I'm running away from home!"

And my father lifted me up over his

"How far do you want to go?"

He didn't know I was THEE Bill Cosby.

Bill Cosby about being eleven in the

sunlight to the human spirit we cannot flower and grow without it.

~Jess Lair

I have worked with youth with special needs for over 15 years. I'm currently a Juvenile Corrections

I worked with the students who had special needs. The

received through teaching and being there for

them was priceless. This was one of the most

rewarding jobs I ever had. This experience

taught me how to adjust to the needs of youth

with emotional behavior problems and to see the

person, separate from the problem.

out. When the youth know you care

give you effort beyond their expectations.

Derrick is a motivational speaker and encourages


"Give Someone a WOE, a Word of Encouragement") to help people overcome

trials and tribulations. Derrick has authored a book called 1 WORD Is All It Takes™ (Fall 2009)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6NTc0rwuA4

9393 (toll free)

grow without it.

currently a Juvenile Corrections

students who had special needs. The love I gave and

ng and being there for

. This was one of the most

jobs I ever had. This experience

taught me how to adjust to the needs of youth

emotional behavior problems and to see the

person, separate from the problem. Love wins

When the youth know you care, they will

give you effort beyond their expectations.


a WOE, a Word of Encouragement") to help people overcome

1 WORD Is All It Takes™ (Fall 2009).


State of flux

“I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish He didn't trust me so much.” ~ Mother

Teresa of Calcutta

Amy’s story:

The upside of having a child with special needs is that I have learned an extraordinary amount about

being a parent from the countless experts who have been part of our lives these past three years.

The downside is that I had a panic attack when my sister offered to pay for a cleaning service as a

birthday gift. I simply couldn’t fathom the thought of another person in my house. In the past three

years that my son, Nathan, has been receiving services (occupational, physical and speech therapy, as

well as special instruction), he has had at least 817 therapy sessions—most of which took place in our

apartment. Moreover, there have been at least 22 therapists in our lives, plus evaluators for Early

Intervention and preschool special education services, in addition to a coterie of medical professionals

(pediatrician, neurologist, orthopedist and cardiologist).

At age 4, Nathan has eight therapy sessions a week after school, which means there are eight

opportunities each week for me to hear about yet another activity or approach that one of his

therapists believes will help further his development. Thank you all for the ideas! Please forgive me if

I’m focusing on getting my son to speak in a pleasant voice instead of whining, and addressing other

behavioral issues instead of practicing jumping up with both feet, tracing train “tracks” on the wall so

he’ll cross his midline or setting up a play date that might or might not end well. My goal is to deliver a

well-fed, rested and happy child on time for each designated session, even if that means skipping a

shower some days and seeming perpetually frazzled (oh, wait—I was frazzled before I had a child!).

Sorry. I was trying to sound grateful. I am. I truly am. It’s just that the day-to-day work of dealing with a

special needs child is so … exhausting. All-encompassing. Pervasive. Permanent. These wonderful

people share themselves and their enthusiasm and dedication for an hour here and 30 minutes there,

and it enhances our lives in untold ways. But before and after the session it’s just me, and on the

weekends, me and my husband, trying to get from Point A to Point B without my son having a

meltdown or me hiding in the bathroom with the door locked so I can breathe for a few minutes.

That said, it has been so gratifying to share each little step that Nathan takes as he continues to move

forward with people who are so genuinely happy for him. “He let me brush his teeth!” I exclaimed to

his occupational therapist after we started brushing his body with the special brushes. “He came out of

the bathroom and told me he’d done a poop!” I told his special education teacher, who’d been working

with us for a year to get Nathan toilet-trained. “He told me he was frustrated!” I told his speech

therapist. These amazing people are Nathan’s cheering squad, and my sources of inspiration and

information. I do write down all of the activities they suggest and, as opportunities arise during the


natural course of our day, I try to implement them almost subversively so that Nathan feels I am his

mother and not his teacher.

By now I’m sure you’re wondering what his diagnosis is. Guess what? So am I! Seriously, we have an

inkling and are waiting for the full report. Since he was 11 months old the diagnosis has been

hypotonia (low muscle tone) and global developmental delay. When he was 3½, though, there was an

exuberant burst of speech followed by what sounded like verbal tantrums. Something didn’t seem

right (weren’t kids supposed to have fewer tantrums as they got older?!) so we had him tested for

autism. He’s on the spectrum; we’re not exactly sure where, but he talks from dawn to dusk and loves

going to school and clamors for play dates so it seems that he has some rough edges that need to be

smoothed out but he really, really wants to learn and is capable of doing so.

Knowing he’s autistic means everything and nothing. It means everything in that we now have a

diagnosis (for whatever that’s worth; mostly to qualify for services once he reaches kindergarten) and

there’s a whole shelf of books that can give us some answers, reassurance and techniques for coping

with his quirky behavior. At the same time, it means nothing. It doesn’t change how we see him or how

much we love him. He’ll always be our adorable, funny, magical child.

Signed,

A mom of one who’s always in a state of flux

Copyright 2009 by Amy Hochstein

[email protected] |

How great it is that people

believe in the potential of

a seed. The world’s most

breathtaking gardens grew

because someone with a

vision planted, nurtured,

and believed in seeds.

Plant a Seed and Watch it Grow

You are the stars and the world is watching you. By your presence you send a message to every village,

every city, every nation. A message of hope. A message of victory.

~ Eunice Shriver at the 1987 Special Olympics World Games

Susan’s story

I am from Waltham, MA, and have a son who has been in special education for 10 years in the school district's

PDD program. I am a member of the Special Education Parent Advisory Council and w

reception where we recognized the 10 year anniversary of the PDD program and

presented the teachers, staff, and administration with an award. The PDD

program started in 1999 with 4 students and has grown to over 45 this year.

Here's the link

audio from the speeches.

fortunate to have the autism research pioneer Dr.

Margaret Bauman nearby (she began her multi

disciplinary approach in our city at the

Center

have many years of experience in ASD and related disorders and are instrumental in

providing advice on how to best educate children with special needs.

Susan Sutherland

[email protected]

Marnee’s Note: Susan Sutherland produced “Voice Colors

Megargel. It is a documentary film that explores Billy from ages 3 to 16, showing him learning and

wrestling with all that is entailed in understanding t

In Memory of Eunice Kennedy Shriver

Eunice Kennedy Shriver was the principal founder of the Special Olympics. The Shriver Center, named in her

Honor, is a Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabiliti

shared these memories of her following her passing:

“Mrs. Shriver’s vision of dignity and fulfillment for people with intellectual disabilities

has informed our field for more than 50 years, and her profou

contributions have changed for the better the manner in which people with

intellectual disabilities are perceived, treated, supported and involved in community

life.”


Plant a Seed and Watch it Grow


every city, every nation. A message of hope. A message of victory.

87 Special Olympics World Games

am from Waltham, MA, and have a son who has been in special education for 10 years in the school district's

PDD program. I am a member of the Special Education Parent Advisory Council and we just held our f




Here's the link to our website where you can read about it and hear the

audio from the speeches. www.walthampac.org.

We had over 100 people in attendance including

the Mayor, many of the teachers and

paraprofessionals from special education and

the director who started the program. We are

fortunate to have the autism research pioneer Dr.

Margaret Bauman nearby (she began her multi-

disciplinary approach in our city at the E.K. Shriver

Center) and she and her staff at the LADDERS Clinic,

many years of experience in ASD and related disorders and are instrumental in

providing advice on how to best educate children with special needs.

produced “Voice Colors - Billy’s Story”, which was created by Eve


wrestling with all that is entailed in understanding the elements involved in a social interaction.

Memory of Eunice Kennedy Shriver


Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD). The directors of the Shriver Center

shared these memories of her following her passing:

“Mrs. Shriver’s vision of dignity and fulfillment for people with intellectual disabilities

has informed our field for more than 50 years, and her profound and enduring

contributions have changed for the better the manner in which people with

intellectual disabilities are perceived, treated, supported and involved in community

9393 (toll free)


am from Waltham, MA, and have a son who has been in special education for 10 years in the school district's

e just held our first year end




to our website where you can read about it and hear the

many years of experience in ASD and related disorders and are instrumental in

Billy’s Story”, which was created by Eve


he elements involved in a social interaction.


. The directors of the Shriver Center

[email protected] |

The Moral of the Starfish Story

A boy watched as his teacher was preparing to

throw a stranded starfish back into the ocean.

Boy: You cannot possibly save all of the starfish

on this beach. What difference can you make by

throwing in one after one?

Teacher: I will make a difference to this

She tossed the starfish into the water knowing

the value of that starfish’s life equaled the

lives of all the starfish in the sea.

The legacy

“My life is my message.” ~Mahatma Ghandi

Pablo’s story:

I am an internationally recognized artist known primarily for my

drawings and sculptures of dancers. I have been featured in books,

magazines, newspapers, radio, TV and film. Currently I live and work

with my wife Beverly on our historic 1856 ranch north

Texas. Before acting as my full time muse and business manager,

Beverly was a model and then in sales and marketing for Diane von

Furstenberg, Revlon and Ralph Lauren.

www.pablosolomon.com . You can see that I am now a successful

artist living the good life. Today you might call me accomplished. Once you would have called me trouble.

I grew up in some of the poorest neighborhoods in Houston. I was always sm

always in trouble. I could not read well and could not pay attention to anything for long. Of course, we

would now recognize this as ADD--in my case due to minimal brain injury. However, in those days Special

Education was available for children with severe mental and physical handicaps. But fate worked in my

favor. A teacherA teacherA teacherA teacher

but


The Moral of the Starfish Story

A boy watched as his teacher was preparing to

throw a stranded starfish back into the ocean.

You cannot possibly save all of the starfish

an you make by

I will make a difference to this one.

She tossed the starfish into the water knowing

starfish’s life equaled the

lives of all the starfish in the sea.

~Mahatma Ghandi

am an internationally recognized artist known primarily for my

drawings and sculptures of dancers. I have been featured in books,

magazines, newspapers, radio, TV and film. Currently I live and work

with my wife Beverly on our historic 1856 ranch north of Austin,

Texas. Before acting as my full time muse and business manager,

Beverly was a model and then in sales and marketing for Diane von

Furstenberg, Revlon and Ralph Lauren. You can see my work at

. You can see that I am now a successful


I grew up in some of the poorest neighborhoods in Houston. I was always smart and good in art, but also


in my case due to minimal brain injury. However, in those days Special

available for children with severe mental and physical handicaps. But fate worked in my

A teacherA teacherA teacherA teacher in the 7th grade recognized that I was smart and had potential

reading was my problem. So I was put into a s

This class was before school. At first I did not like it because I

had to get up early and walking to school in the dark in a

rough neighborhood was a bit scary. They had

projectors that would show words, then phrases at

faster and faster speeds. As time went by, and I got

better I enjoyed the class. It lasted a full school

year. I went from very slow to very fast. In fact

because I was so hyper, I put that energy into

learning all that I could. I still shot my mouth off

too much (and probably still do), but my grades

got better and better and I enjoyed school more

and more. I eventually even got a scholarship to

college. And for several years I tried to give back

by working in special education.

my life might have turned out if that

had not seen that I was a poor reader and not just a

smart aleck. Thanks.

9393 (toll free)


art and good in art, but also


in my case due to minimal brain injury. However, in those days Special

available for children with severe mental and physical handicaps. But fate worked in my

in the 7th grade recognized that I was smart and had potential

reading was my problem. So I was put into a special reading class.

first I did not like it because I

had to get up early and walking to school in the dark in a

rough neighborhood was a bit scary. They had

projectors that would show words, then phrases at

aster speeds. As time went by, and I got

better I enjoyed the class. It lasted a full school

year. I went from very slow to very fast. In fact

because I was so hyper, I put that energy into

learning all that I could. I still shot my mouth off

nd probably still do), but my grades

got better and better and I enjoyed school more

and more. I eventually even got a scholarship to

college. And for several years I tried to give back

orking in special education. I hate to think how

ve turned out if that one teacherone teacherone teacherone teacher

had not seen that I was a poor reader and not just a

[email protected] |

Lifeline to Hope

If you lose hope, somehow you lose the vitality that keeps life moving, you lose that courage to be,

that quality that helps you go on in spite of it all. And so today I still have a dream.

~Martin Luther King, Jr.

Michele’s story:

I'm a speech-language pathology assistant with Interactive Health Therapies in Charlotte, NC

My husband, Ken, suffered a stroke in 2003. Ken's stroke was very profound. His hearing, speech,

vision, cognition, and the right side of the body were affected. Even as a healthcare professional, I

could not see the complete picture. This event wa

completely process all the physical changes were occurring to

his 38th birthday, thus I found it hard

young. We spent one week in the hospital and a month in an in

his stroke that he could not tolerate sitting up in a chair. He had to learn to sit, walk, talk, and adapt

to using his left hand (due to the weakness in the right).

At the time of his stroke, I had only been working in the speech field for

nursing facility for a year and then with the pediatric population for 2 years. I knew how to comfort

family members of my patients, but I could no

and family. The rehab teams at the hospital that he visited, the in

outpatient rehab, where the absolute BEST.

With a group effort and several years of therapy, my husband

talk to some degree (though not as fluent as before).

This is to all of the PTs, PTAs, SLPs, SLPAs, OTs, and COTAs

that have contributed to the care of my husband and who

have helped others just like him who have suffered a major,

life-altering illness, I thank you

Therapists sometimes don't realize just how much they

truly support and encourage their patients and the patient's

family members.

At a time when life seems so difficult, the therapist often

becomes a lifeline to the family unit. ~Michele



you go on in spite of it all. And so today I still have a dream.

language pathology assistant with Interactive Health Therapies in Charlotte, NC



could not see the complete picture. This event was happening to someone that I loved, so I couldn't

completely process all the physical changes were occurring to Ken. My husband had his stroke on

his 38th birthday, thus I found it hard to believe that he would not bounce back because he was so

e spent one week in the hospital and a month in an in-house rehab. Ken was so weak after


to using his left hand (due to the weakness in the right).

At the time of his stroke, I had only been working in the speech field for 3 years. I had worked in a


family members of my patients, but I could not deal with the effects the stroke left on my husband

and family. The rehab teams at the hospital that he visited, the in-house rehab, and later the

outpatient rehab, where the absolute BEST.

With a group effort and several years of therapy, my husband is now able to walk with a cane and

talk to some degree (though not as fluent as before).

SLPs, SLPAs, OTs, and COTAs

that have contributed to the care of my husband and who

have helped others just like him who have suffered a major,

I thank you.

Therapists sometimes don't realize just how much they

courage their patients and the patient's

At a time when life seems so difficult, the therapist often

becomes a lifeline to the family unit. ~Michele

9393 (toll free)


you go on in spite of it all. And so today I still have a dream.

language pathology assistant with Interactive Health Therapies in Charlotte, NC.



s happening to someone that I loved, so I couldn't

Ken. My husband had his stroke on

to believe that he would not bounce back because he was so

house rehab. Ken was so weak after


3 years. I had worked in a


t deal with the effects the stroke left on my husband

house rehab, and later the

is now able to walk with a cane and

[email protected] |

Hard?

Hard is easy. Hard started on

day one. Thanks to HARD, I

can climb any mountain,

overcome any obstacle, and

be a light for those lost in the

dark.

Part of a Bigger Plan

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. ~

Chelsea’s story:

I am a 21 year old college student who is currently atten

College is the only accredited LD four year college in the nation

I started my education in a regular kindergarten class, but was moved to a contained class room in 1st

grade. The LD (learning disabled) kids went outside to play by ourselves and we sat at our own table. I

did not understand why.

I stayed in public school until 4th grade

schools.

In a LD school

the students back each other up and understand and support each

other in every way.

I had faith that there was a plan for me and that maybe I had to look

inside myself to find the answer.

GOOD NEWS!!! The plan for me was bigger than I could have imagined

for myself.

I was always creative and loved clothes. When I was seventeen, I started

my own clothing line called "Faithful Fish"

It includes mainstream Christian clothing

proceeds are donated to Christian charities

people in need.


The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. ~Eleanor Roosevelt

ollege student who is currently attending Beacon College in Leesburg.

College is the only accredited LD four year college in the nation.


The LD (learning disabled) kids went outside to play by ourselves and we sat at our own table. I

grade and then went to a couple of private LD (learning disability)

LD school, we are all the same. The teachers truly understand us


other in every way.

I have decided to not define myself by test scores. This decision

happened after a heartbreaking meeting with a vocational

counselor. It was there that I learned for the first time how poor

my psycho-education results were. I was so upset because I

knew school was very, very difficult for me, but when she said it

in her terms, it sounded like I was the oppos

“Be strong and let your heart take courage” ~


inside myself to find the answer.

The plan for me was bigger than I could have imagined

I was always creative and loved clothes. When I was seventeen, I started

my own clothing line called "Faithful Fish": http://www.faithfulfish.com

Christian clothing for the faithful. A portion of all

proceeds are donated to Christian charities and are used to give back to

9393 (toll free)

Eleanor Roosevelt

ding Beacon College in Leesburg. Beacon


The LD (learning disabled) kids went outside to play by ourselves and we sat at our own table. I

(learning disability)

he teachers truly understand us. All


I have decided to not define myself by test scores. This decision

ith a vocational

counselor. It was there that I learned for the first time how poor

education results were. I was so upset because I

was very, very difficult for me, but when she said it

terms, it sounded like I was the opposite of smart.

“Be strong and let your heart take courage” ~ Psalm 27:14


[email protected] |

A liberating experience for me was when I stood side

entrepreneurs at a speaking engagement.

entrepreneur was going to a university like Princeton. I deci

story…my real story. When I went up,

learning disability and couldn't read until I was almost 9 years

a gift no matter how smart, no matter your challenges

came in first place in the regional Global Student Entrepreneur competition!

Recently, I shared my story on Fox & Friends and

for me has been accepting the role of

babysit, save their money, cut coupons

other tips. I still have a terrible time writing and

reading, but that does not prevent me from

contributing in a way that is helpful and meaningful to

other young people. This summer, my story was

published! I was a contributor to the book,

Soup for the Soul: Extraordinary Teens

have given up on myself in school, while I struggled

with reading and writing, I don’t know how I would

have found myself in a book about extraordinary

people!

I want to encourage

other young people

they should focus on w

they are good at the most.

Do what you love and you will be successful.

I am grateful to the teachers at my private school

and Beacon who helped to make me who I am

They gave me self

believe in myself.


experience for me was when I stood side-by- side with academically successful student

entrepreneurs at a speaking engagement. I was almost the last person to speak. It seemed that e

a university like Princeton. I decided to take a leap of faith and share my

When I went up, I took a deep breath and told everyone that I had a

and couldn't read until I was almost 9 years old. I told them that

mart, no matter your challenges. You can imagine how elated I was recently when

came in first place in the regional Global Student Entrepreneur competition! I am on my way to nationals!

Recently, I shared my story on Fox & Friends and Dave Ramsey's TV and radio show

for me has been accepting the role of Seventeen Magazine’s online money advisor. I encourage kids

babysit, save their money, cut coupons, and to use

rible time writing and

ng, but that does not prevent me from

contributing in a way that is helpful and meaningful to

other young people. This summer, my story was

published! I was a contributor to the book, Chicken

Soup for the Soul: Extraordinary Teens. If I would

en up on myself in school, while I struggled

with reading and writing, I don’t know how I would

have found myself in a book about extraordinary

I want to encourage

other young people

to hang onto

their dreams

and to believe

in themselves.

I go to schools

and tell both

the parents

and the students that

they should focus on what

they are good at the most.

what you love and you will be successful.


and Beacon who helped to make me who I am

They gave me self-confidence; they made me

believe in myself.

My story at the end of the

day is about life, love and

how faith can bring you

joy. Like so many people,

I have experienced

tremendous losses and

faced challenges.

from those losses came

inspiration and from

those challenges came

determination. ~Chelsea

9393 (toll free)

side with academically successful student-

It seemed that every other

ded to take a leap of faith and share my

I took a deep breath and told everyone that I had a

old. I told them that everyone has

You can imagine how elated I was recently when I

I am on my way to nationals!

V and radio show. An amazing experience

. I encourage kids to


and Beacon who helped to make me who I am.

confidence; they made me

My story at the end of the

day is about life, love and

how faith can bring you

Like so many people,

I have experienced

tremendous losses and

faced challenges. But

from those losses came

inspiration and from

those challenges came

determination. ~Chelsea

[email protected] |

Thank you for the sun that warms my face

and for t

Thank you for my dad who knows my pace

and for my mom who kisses my nose

Thank you for my helpers and friends

who know how to grow my smile

Thank you for my heart that quickly mends

You painted

Beyond the struggles and the rush

For out of all the people in this whole wide world


Your Special BrushYour Special BrushYour Special BrushYour Special Brush

Thank you for the sun that warms my face

and for the water that wets my toes

Thank you for my dad who knows my pace

and for my mom who kisses my nose

Thank you for my helpers and friends

who know how to grow my smile

Thank you for my heart that quickly mends

when learning takes a while

You painted me with your special brush

and put me here with a plan

Beyond the struggles and the rush

I’ll shine in all I can

In my life, I’ve been blessed

as far as I can see

For out of all the people in this whole wide world

I am the best at being me

~ Marnee Brick

9393 (toll free)

~ Marnee Brick


If you or someone you know would like to

share a story for the extended version of this

book coming out in SPRING of 2010, please let

me know!!

You can reach me at [email protected]!

All the best to you,

Marnee

Documents

Rainbows and Butterflies-Heartfelt Stories of Special People and Special Education