Swim for Autism!
My daughter Gianna is in a remarkable regular ed 5th grade class. Each year, the 5th grade has to do a "Heroes" project. And there is an extension project where the kids do some sort of charitable work. Gianna's neurotypical pal I'll call "B" decided to run a Swim-A-Thon with the proceeds going to the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for autism. B's Mom is Teacher of the Year for the 5th grade, by the way. No small coincidence her daughter is such a neat kid. There are other kids who have taken a real shine to Gianna. Like J and C for starters.
These are Gianna's first real friends. They invite her to participate in events. They treat her as an equal - albeit one who needs some extra support. They include her. I love these kids. I love their parents for raising them so well. I love Gianna's school for making sure all the kids matter.
Sink or swim? Miss G's going to swim. I know it.
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11 comments:
How could they *not* take a shine to Gianna? Glad to hear things are going along "swimmingly!" (Sorry, couldn't resist!)
Sorry I'm being lazy and not emailing you this one...please check out this post and help me spread the word?
http://maternal-instincts.blogspot.com/2008/04/please-pray-for-rhett.html
Our little friend who just had surgery is NOT doing well. Calling all prayer patrols...
She will swim. This is great news that she has friends.
How wonderful that children are reaching out to her! I'm sure they are getting as much from her friendship as she is gaining from theirs.
How great for Gianna!
This is as it should be. Arms open, each of us accepting the other for who we are, celebrating our differences in the best possible way. Hugs from Canada.
Kim, I think Ms. G will do more than swim. I think she will find her wings soon and SOAR!!!
Didn't realize that she was in a regular ed 5th grade. Good for her. And I am so happy that she found a few pals who are willing to take her under their wing. I know the difference that can make.
Keep up the good work!
Love, Petra
Petra, she's in SOME inclusion. Mostly the SRP room, but the school makes every effort to include her where they can. She participated fully in the Heroes project. Her hero was Jimmy Buffet for founding Save The Manatee!
Oh that is so great. Typical kids are so sweet and loving and kind when they are given the information they need to be a supportive friend.
Go Ms. G!
God bless her heart.
Go, Miss G, Go!
She will swim mom.
Oh yes.
I'm glad Miss G has friends that care for her and love her for who she is. I am B from the swim-a-thon. B stands for Baily. Miss G has brought a great deal to the party and is an important part of our social group. We look forward to having her with us daily during lunch and recess. Her unconditional loyalty is inspirering.
Rock on Baily!!!!! :)
Love, Kim
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