Our son Colin is a fun, social, country-lovin’ guy who loves to sing, hang out with friends and family, play basketball, and meet new people. He has Nicolaides-Baraitser Syndrome, epilepsy, autism, IDD and a duplication of the 17Q chromosome.
When Colin was three years old, he had brain surgery. Given this, we were always protective…over-protective. We were terrified of our decision to transition Colin from a “safe” elementary school environment to public high school; however, he flourished, made neurotypical and neurodiverse friends, gained confidence and skills that ultimately prepared him to be able to work after graduation.
We are again faced with considering a transition for what longer term living will look like for him. Our dream for Colin is for him to be his own best self every day and be a productive part of society. We envision him living in the community with oversight, taking part in social events, continuing to earn money, keeping and making friends, and most of all…being HAPPY! We are excited about the prospect of providing choices for Colin and what will ultimately work best for him.
