I would like to share someone very special with you. His name is Matthew and he's my grandson. Matthew is also autistic. Matty's dad is a Marine. They live at Camp LeJeune, North Carolina, where he was diagnosed much earlier than the state of North Carolina allows, because my daughter, Heather, pushed and insisted. She knew something was wrong because Matthew wasn't progressing like his older brother had.
Once Matty was diagnosed, doctors told my daughter that Matty was severely autistic -- he may never learn to talk. After the initial shock and the grief of acceptance, Heather took that as a personal challenge because she loved Matty. She taught him to sign.
As a direct result of her unwavering love and by both signing and speaking everything with Matthew, my daughter eventually broke through his autistic barrier. He suddenly understood the connection between sign and words, and Matthew began talking in full sentences. I'm so proud of Heather for her love and strength. She's an inspiration to everyone ...
I am Matty, I am ME
by CJ Heck (Grammy CJ)
I’ve got this thing called autism
that can lock you up inside
but I am me, I’m Matty,
and I’m learning not to hide.
The state was slow to test me.
Mommy made them walk the line.
They said I might not talk
so mommy taught me how to sign.
There’s nothing slow about me.
Everywhere I go, I run.
I’m always on my tiptoes,
and I flap my arms when I have fun.
I love climbing and pretending,
I know movies word for word,
and now that I have learned to talk,
I repeat things till I’m heard.
I’m just like any other boy
in many, many ways,
but I like things to stay the same
so I won’t melt down today.
I have this thing called autism,
but I am Matty. I am ME.
I’ve unlocked my world inside
‘cause my mommy held the key.
Note: Now, nearly six years since this poem was written, I am proud to say, Matthew is among the students at the very top of his class and in a normal school setting. He's a wonderful little boy, with a delightful sense of humor and a loving and affectionate disposition. Matty is both outgoing and outspoken and he's totally fearless. When I asked him what he wants to be when he grows up, here is how he answered:
"I'm going to be a scientist. I'm going to invent a new rocket fuel for space travel and I'll have lots of cats and dogs in my laboratory to keep me company ..."
It is sometimes difficult to write an effective poem about someone you love so dearly, but you have managed it quite well CJ. I'm sure Matty would glow when read this poem by gramma.
loveya
Rusty
This exceptional book, Celebrating the Gift of Being Alive, has the perfect thoughts and words for birthdays, graduations, engagements, marriages, and any life celebration or family tradition.
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loveya
Rusty
(((HUGS))) to you and little Matty.
Love, Karla.
Fee