This past weekend was a BIG one in our house. It has taken me a few days to come back to our daily reality.
Our son with Autism, attended his High School’s Homecoming dance with another student with Autism. It was a first for all of us. There were some logistical pieces to work out, but there was no stopping 2 momma bears having our kids be a part of an event like this! These 2 did it all “KNOWDifferently”. Hanna had her hair and makeup done and got a new dress. Marky got the corsage, a new bowtie and was ready to dance. They also were included in group pictures with a Senior class group.
Hanna and Marky were embraced by the entire school community at the dance. They were on the dance floor before anyone else, because, as many of you know, kids with Autism, don’t worry about who may be looking! In fact, they got the crowd going and brought kids to the dance floor! Students were coming up to them to say hi, to take pictures, to dance with them and to welcome them! The energy and the feeling in this room were immeasurable. It started out as an opportunity for these 2 to experience, but ended up being one that showed inclusivity, positivity and such support.
This video of them dancing is dark, but, you can see and feel the joy!
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There is a really exciting add-on to this event in that, our daughter, who is a Senior at the same school, was crowned Homecoming Queen. Now, you have to know Sophia, to really understand this. She is who I want to be when I grow up.
Sophia has spent most of her life, offering guidance to her brother as well as interpreting Marky’s needs. She is a kind soul for sure, her family and friends know that. To be selected by her student body of 1700 students shows that they see it as well. She is not your typical Queen, she is not a cheerleader or athlete, she is in some clubs and dances outside of school. I LOVE that she may have broken a mold and is showing others that anything is possible!
Here are Hanna & Marky headed out to dinner for Chinese Food and then the dance, wearing headphones, as they always do!
Having Sophia & Marky at her last and his first Homecoming has left me and the community smiling from ear to ear.
When I asked Marky what he loved most, he said, “getting my groove on!”