A True Learning Experience
I have a special place in my heart for people with disabilities.
It all began as a child, having an uncle with Down’s Syndrome, and being able to experience, as a family, what it means to enjoy life with a person with a disability. My grandparents were told to put him in an institution and that he would not live past 30 years of age. They didn’t follow that advice. Currently, he is living very well in a group home at the age of 48.
I have worked with the special needs population in a variety of ways over the past 15 years: in an adult group home setting, in self contained classrooms as a teacher assistant and as a lead teacher. Now, currently I am working with children from birth to age 5 for the school system and for Easter Seals/United Cerebral Palsy.
So, you can probably see why this article touched me. Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces and the joy they brought to everyone around them is why I love working with children with disabilities. (Be sure to watch the video clip after reading the article).
I hope it blesses you as much as it did me.
Great post, Christy. We have a lady in our church with down syndrome. She is a wonderful blessing to me. Dottie sends out the birthday cards for our church. I have enjoyed getting to know her. I know you are blessing the lives of the children you work with also.
May 15th, 2007 | #
Thanks Amy- I have been very fortunate to spend time with people with various special needs. It is amazing the joy that they exude! And the joy that surrounds the people that they touch. It is contagious!
May 15th, 2007 | #