Cierra R, age 19
Photograph by Rikkia Tracy (2022)
Cierra is a funny and determined young woman. She is bubbly and makes people laugh.
Cierra’s favorite activities include riding horses, martial arts, visiting the fire station, going to Chuck E. Cheese, and dancing. Among her mom’s proud parent moments are when Cierra learned to tie her shoes, and when she was able to recite a poem she was taught. Though she has autism along with feeding, breathing, and communication challenges, she maintains her positive spirit.
Cierra’s optimistic attitude, resolve, and desire to learn new things has taught her family to be more patient, understanding, and caring.
Cierra es una joven divertida y decidida. Es burbujeante y hace reír a la gente.
Las actividades favoritas de Cierra incluyen montar a caballo, las artes marciales, visitar la estación de bomberos, ir a Chuck E. Cheese y bailar. Entre los momentos de orgullo de su madre están cuando Cierra aprendió a atarse los zapatos y cuando fue capaz de recitar un poema que le enseñaron. Aunque tiene autismo y problemas de alimentación, respiración y comunicación, mantiene su espíritu positivo.
La actitud optimista de Cierra, su determinación y su deseo de aprender cosas nuevas han enseñado a su familia a ser más paciente, comprensiva y cariñosa.
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.