When I was younger, people used to ask me what it was like to have special needs brothers. Some people would even ap0logize, as if their presence was a burden on my life. I never really understood it. To me, they have always been perfect. I think it took me a very long time to even realize that there was something different about them. So yes, they might not have as much knowledge as the average person or have a firm grasp on reality, but they outdo us all in other aspects. They have a tremendous space inside them that is only filled with love. I was hoping to take some of that love with me when we visited Edirisa Special Ed School.
I have never been a fan of baby voices or quick annoyance with kids. Sure it can be challenging at times, but treating these kids like normal human beings is the best way to help them grow. My younger brothers (Matt and Chris) are so awesome, just because they had two older siblings who left no room for special treatment. We teased, laughed, hugged, and played with them like we would each other. Of course there are unfortunate things every Down Syndrome kid must do in order for them to accelerate at the fastest speed. Physical therapy, speech classes, and extra schooling are needed. They got this all, unlike all of the kids here, who are hidden by their families who are ashamed of them. Special needs kids here know right away there is something wrong with them. They feel the burden that their families carry. My brothers treat everyone with respect, and so they get this in return. It makes my heart melt thinking that these special kids in Uganda were able to find a place that really accepts and respects as well. At Edirisa, all the kids are treated the same. There is never pity, because all 52 of the special needs children are able to show their full potential. However, that potential has been limited by previous family situations. I look at 8 year old Charlotte, a very silent Downs girl. Sure she laughs and plays with the other children, but she walks with a limp and cannot form proper sentences. I think about how Matt walks with his intended swag and Chris carries on full conversations.
I guess if I could go back in time and answer those kids on the playground, I would say this…
I am really the luckiest person in the world, and so are Matt and Chris. They have been given everything that this world has to offer. Maybe I would also tell them that it sucks real bad that they don’t have twin special needs brothers.
:]
love,
Kellie