By Pamela Saunders
Office and Finance Manager
Some years ago, when my son was two and a half, I received the heartbreaking news that he had been diagnosed with Autism. I was told by my pediatrician and other professionals that he may never speak, would not progress in school, and would never live independently. I was faced with the future they laid out before me: no school prom, no college, no career, no wedding, and no children. I felt cheated for my son’s future.
But as with many people who are put in situations they did not plan for, I put one foot in front of the other and carried on each day. I endured back-to-school nights listening to other parents talk about their child’s accomplishments, awards, and college dreams, feeling slighted and resentful but not loving my son any less.
In 2016, the law firm I worked for closed after 21 years. What was I supposed to do? Where was I supposed to go? It was then that I joined the CASA staff and found myself privy to the stories and situations surrounding the children we serve. Sometimes it seems like each story is more heartbreaking than the next. I volunteered to advocate for two boys with special needs and fragile health, and another whose future did not seem very bright.
Then it hit me. Like a slap upside your head, sometimes life’s lessons are thrust upon you with so much force that it is very clear that somebody is trying to tell you something. What was the message that someone clearly wanted me to get? Appreciate the life you have been given as all life is precious.
Children with special needs may not have the same milestones as the kid next door, but sometimes their milestones and life goals can be even more exciting when reached. The simplest accomplishment is worth celebrating. For the passion of my son’s love for life, sports, and friendships I AM GRATEFUL. For my CASA kids who work hard each day at the simplest of tasks, I AM GRATEFUL. I appreciate that the tough road I’ve traveled was made easier with the support of family and friends. I see every day that many, including my CASA kids do not have this support. I am luckier than many I see and hear about every day.
So for the love and support of family, friends, and my wonderful CASA family, I AM GRATEFUL. And for the opportunity in 2020 to continue to impact the lives of children who need a CASA, I AM GRATEFUL.