Jackson K - Family Connection of South Carolina

Jackson K, age 8

Photograph by Nina Spinelli (2022)

Like most boys his age, Jackson Kerwin loves anything to do with Legos, video games, and karate. Jackson has a unique empathy and compassion for others.

His mom, Stephanie, recalls a recent time when Jackson went out of his way to help a classmate with limited language skills feel included by interacting with him and showing him kindness. “Jackson makes everyone around him smile,” Stephanie says. “He also loves to make others feel loved and cared for.”

When Stephanie first learned about Jackson’s diagnosis of autism and ADHD, there were challenges with navigating the healthcare and school system. These challenges provided a new outlook on life. Jackson was able to teach his family the importance of flexibility and adaptability.

His family describes him as being funny, witty, sweet, and curious. Jackson inspires them daily with his kindness, forgiveness, and his ability to think five steps ahead.

“I want the world to know that Jackson is perfectly and wonderfully made,” Stephanie says. “His mind is unique and amazing.”

Como la mayoría de los chicos de su edad, a Jackson Kerwin le encanta todo lo relacionado con los Legos, los videojuegos y el karate. Jackson tiene una empatía y una compasión únicas por los demás.

Su madre, Stephanie, recuerda una ocasión reciente en la que Jackson se desvivió por ayudar a un compañero de clase con conocimientos limitados del idioma a sentirse incluido, interactuando con él y mostrándole amabilidad “Jackson hace sonreír a todos los que le rodean”, dice Stephanie.

“También le encanta hacer que los demás se sientan queridos y atendidos”.

Cuando Stephanie se enteró del diagnóstico de autismo y TDAH de Jackson, tuvo que enfrentarse a los problemas del sistema sanitario y escolar.

Estos retos le proporcionaron una nueva perspectiva de la vida. Jackson fue capaz de enseñar a su familia la importancia de la flexibilidad y la adaptabilidad.

Su familia lo describe como divertido, ingenioso, dulce y curioso. Jackson les inspira a diario con su amabilidad, su perdón y su capacidad para pensar cinco pasos por delante.

“Quiero que el mundo sepa que Jackson está perfecta y maravillosamente hecho”, dice Stephanie. “Su mente es única y sorprendente”.

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.