13 July 2011

Day 605 – Grayson’s Journey

Grayson is still quite non-verbal. He must be encouraged throughout the day to put his thoughts, feelings, and desires a word and then into a sentence. He will answer a direct question and will finish a sentence if I start it for him but I can't remember the last time he initiated a sentence.

At one point today Grayson did do something a little unusual. Grayson's appearance to an outsider reflects that he has some cognitive challenges. He walks a little stooped, with his neck extended forward, his hands frequently held at waist level in a mild claw posture. If I whisper a reminder to him to stand up straight, his posture straightens up and he holds his head up high. It only lasts a few seconds. Unless he is laughing or otherwise responding to something, his face is now naturally in a somewhat serious expression. He listens intently with a slightly furled forehead. Some might think it a little intimidating as if he is staring or menacing. If I remind him to smile, he breaks out in a wide, cheesy grin.

Today, we walked past an outdoor table where two women were talking over lunch. One of the women engaged Grayson's eye and gave him a smile. He smiled back and gave her a wave as we past them. I thought he recognized her from somewhere but he said no. This small moment really warmed my heart.

Moment by moment.

Peace,

Regina

1 comment:

  1. ... and we live in the small moments ... glad this was a good one

    ReplyDelete