Dylan and Jackson M - Family Connection of South Carolina

Dylan and Jackson M, ages 9 and 12

Photograph by Lyndsey Livingston (2022)

Dylan Morton aka “Dyl Pickle” is a happy boy who has yet to meet a person or animal he doesn’t love. He likes dancing, reading Pokémon books, and playing with superhero toys. He also enjoys being a prankster, making people laugh, and spending time with his brother, Jackson. They love wrestling each other and swimming.

Diagnosed with Down syndrome, Dylan has worked extremely hard to meet very high expectations in school. This coming school year, he will be spending time in a mainstream classroom for the first time!

Dylan’s bright smile and infectious laughter brings joy wherever he goes.

His mom says, “Dylan often inspires me to be more comfortable with myself. He knows no strangers and is completely and unapologetically himself.”

Big brother Jackson aka “Action Jackson” turned 13 shortly after this photo shoot. He enjoys helping others and loves animals. He volunteers with Little Carolina Paws Rescue and PetSmart each week. Although he’s not personally a fan of hugs, he always has one for anyone in need.

Jackson is currently taking guitar lessons and loves gaming, reading, and painting. He is looking forward to starting at Midlands Arts Conservatory in the fall. Since being diagnosed with autism and ADHD at the age of four, Jackson has worked diligently to continue in general education classes.

Jackson is kind, polite, and has a great sense of humor. He may be a little quiet until he gets to know you. His mom says, “Jackson is so much stronger than he realizes. At 13, he’s dealt with and overcome so much. His resilience inspires me.”

Dylan Morton, también conocido como “Dyl Pickle”, es un niño feliz que aún no ha conocido a una persona o animal que no le guste. Le gusta bailar, leer libros de Pokémon y jugar con juguetes de superhéroes. También le gusta gastar bromas, hacer reír a la gente y pasar tiempo con su hermano Jackson. Les encanta luchar entre ellos y nadar.

Diagnosticado con síndrome de Down, Dylan se ha esforzado mucho por cumplir unas expectativas muy altas en la escuela. Este año escolar, pasará por primera vez por un aula ordinaria.

La brillante sonrisa de Dylan y su contagiosa risa alegran cualquier lugar al que vaya. Su madre dice: “Dylan me inspira a menudo a sentirme más cómoda conmigo misma. No conoce a los extraños y es completamente y sin disculpas él mismo”.

El hermano mayor Jackson, alias “Action Jackson”, cumplió 13 años poco después de esta sesión de fotos. Le gusta ayudar a los demás y le encantan los animales. Es voluntario en Little Carolina Paws Rescue y PetSmart cada semana. Aunque personalmente no le gustan los abrazos, siempre tiene uno para quien lo necesite.

Jackson está tomando clases de guitarra y le encantan los juegos, la lectura y la pintura. Está deseando empezar en el Conservatorio de Artes de Midlands en otoño. Desde que se le diagnosticó autismo y TDAH a los cuatro años, Jackson ha trabajado con diligencia para continuar en las clases de educación general.

Jackson es amable, educado y tiene un gran sentido del humor. Puede estar un poco callado hasta que te conozca. Su madre dice: “Jackson es mucho más fuerte de lo que cree. A los 13 años, ha afrontado y superado muchas cosas. Su resistencia me inspira”.

Family Connection of South Carolina provides services and resources to families who have a child with a disability or specialized healthcare need. Since 1990 we have served more than 100,000 families and today our services are needed more than ever. We focus on parent-to-parent support, guidance with navigating the complex healthcare system, and assistance with school meetings and special education plans.