The Future is Limitless…

It is often difficult to imagine the future for a child with special needs.  Fear and uncertainty cloud every thought and determining the appropriate direction for your child seems unimaginable.  Parents of typical children always think that they know what their child’s future will look like: college, family, grandchildren, work, independence... but  in reality they don’t know anymore than a parent of a child with special needs.  Parents dream of their child’s  future, gathering all the information they currently have about their child and then formulate a picture of HOPE in their minds of what their child’s life may be.  Parents of children with special needs are often afraid to HOPE and dream of what will be to come.   Often we have no concept of what that future reality will be.  I thought it was important, especially during autism awareness month, for families to see the future.  These are some of the incredible young men and women that I have had the privilege to work with over the years.  They have become amazing adults regardless of their challenges and are an inspiration for hopeful dreams for all parents.  Never stop dreaming and don’t give up HOPE - the future is limitless.

-       Joanne Sweazey