| Sam is an energetic 8-year-old boy who loves climbing the rock wall and taking swimming classes at the local YMCA. In school, his math skills shine and he has been reading since the age of two. His family is determined to not let autism define him and they work every day to give Sam the tools he needs to be successful in life. After moving to the Wichita area three years ago, Sam’s mother and father learned about Heartspring’s CARE (Community of Autism Resources and Education) Program and the services provided for children with autism. In 2008 Sam attended Camp SSTAR for the first time, meeting many other children on the autism spectrum. “When you have a child with autism, you feel like you are swimming up stream most of the time. Having a place where your child is not only accepted and loved, but understood is the most amazing feeling in the world,” says Sam’s mom Teresa. As a result of the support of his family and Heartspring’s CARE Program, Sam is now able to focus in school and is requiring less direction from his instructors. He is also continuing to build his social skills and create positive relationships with his peers. “We feel the CARE Program offers opportunities for Sam to reach his highest potential,” says Teresa. “Our greatest hope for Sam is for him to find success and happiness in life and not be limited by his diagnosis. We want him to embrace who he is and to face with confidence whatever obstacles he may face as an individual on the autism spectrum.” |