William Ethan B, age 10

Photograph by Heather Hill (2022)
Ethan is a bubbly, energetic, happy boy–until he gets hungry! Most of the time he’s laughing, playing, and jumping–a ball of energy. He loves water, the trampoline park, music, and cartoons.
 
Demonstrating a “never give up” attitude, Ethan is persistent, determined, and a problem solver. If there is something Ethan wants, he will try his best to get it.
 
His parents proudly remember a few of Ethan’s accomplishments including when he started walking; the first time he was able to “sign”; matching shapes to the correct spaces; eating with utensils; and being able to hold a pencil and write. His mom is especially proud of the IEP goals he meets. He’s always trying and learning.
 
Ethan has taught his family to be grateful for the simple things in life they used to take for granted. He helped them to understand everyone’s learning style is different. Although Ethan’s diagnosis of cerebral palsy and autism doesn’t allow him to talk or respond, it doesn’t mean he isn’t listening. It doesn’t mean he doesn’t have a voice. He is a model of patience and an example for all. 
Ethan es un niño burbujeante, enérgico y feliz… ¡hasta que le entra hambre! La mayor parte del tiempo está riendo, jugando y saltando, una bola de energía. Le encanta el agua, el parque de trampolines, la música y los dibujos animados.
 
Demostrando una actitud de “no rendirse nunca”, Ethan es persistente, decidido y soluciona problemas. Si hay algo que Ethan quiere, hará todo lo posible por conseguirlo.
 
Sus padres recuerdan con orgullo algunos de los logros de Ethan, como cuando empezó a caminar; la primera vez que fue capaz de “hacer señas”; la correspondencia de las formas con los espacios correctos; comer con utensilios; y ser capaz de sostener un lápiz y escribir. Su madre está especialmente orgullosa de los objetivos del IEP que cumple. Siempre está probando y aprendiendo.
 
Ethan ha enseñado a su familia a agradecer las cosas sencillas de la vida que antes daban por sentadas. Les ayudó a comprender que el estilo de aprendizaje de cada persona es diferente. Aunque el diagnóstico de parálisis cerebral y autismo de Ethan no le permite hablar ni responder, no significa que no escuche. Eso no significa que no tenga voz. Es un modelo de paciencia y un ejemplo para todos.

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.