This is an emotional week for me. Yes, I know, most weeks are emotional weeks for me. But this week happens to be Luke's last at the Goodwill Easter Seals Child Devolopment Center (GESCDC). I might as well bring the tissue with me on Friday because I am sure I will cry...sniff, sniff. It is so hard to say goodbye, especially to people who have been such a big part of my family's life.
It was in November of 2010 that I received a call for the director (Anne) that a spot had become available for Luke at this school. It couldn't have come at a better time. Roger and I were both at our wit's end trying to figure out this autism thing and how to help Luke. We didn't know how to handle the screaming and the meltdowns. It was stressful to say the least. We were so excited that he could be in a program that could help him. Not only did it help Luke, it helped our family as well.
He began the program on November 29, 2010. (He didn't cry at drop off, but I did!) This was a big step for him and for me. I didn't know what to expect. How would he do? Transitions can be very difficult for kids with autism. He completely surprised me and transitioned remarkably well. In fact, the first day, he went into his class with a smile and every day since then has been the same. He loves the people there. They are an integral part of his life. Under their instruction and care, Luke has made great progress. His communication skills have improved. He has many more word approximations in his vocabulary, he uses simple signs more consistently to indicate his needs, and he is engaged in what is going on around him. He can recognize his name and match numbers. He is even making progress with potty training! (Ms. April is awesome!) The list goes on and on...not to forget the wonderful friends we have made along the way. I credit his success to God and the amazing people He has used to teach Luke. (Thank you Ms. Maria, Ms Toni, Ms. April). They are all special to me.
Over these months, I have grown to love the people who work there. The director, teachers, and assistants have all been nothing less than wonderfulThey have been supportive, encouraging, and informative. There have been days when I just looked like I needed a hug and was met with open arms(Thanks Anne!). They are like family. Their work is priceless. Not only are they good at what they do, they are also invested in the children. They really care. (Thank you Ms. Mickie, Ms. Toni). They look at these children with disabilities and see them first as children, not disabilities. They face challenges every day they go to work but they press on and are dedicated to their work and their children. I respect them so much for what they do.
But even more importantly, they have been so good to my little guy Luke. He loves going there. He is greeted with smiles each morning and, on most mornings, he flashes those sweet dimples and smiles back. (Thanks Ms. Diane, Ms. Eleanor, Ms. Bobbi, Ms. Jodi, Ms. Christy!) It is such a comfort to know your child is in good hands. He has been in great hands.
As this chapter comes to an end and a new one will soon begin, I look back with gratitude and look forward with hope. Thankful for progress already made and expectant of the progress that is to come. I am so thankful for the GESCDC and I will be forever grateful for the care they have given Luke. I know that he will miss them. I will miss them too! So, I won't say good-bye. I will just say..."until later."
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