Big Brother of the Year

I have said it so many times over the course of years, but I truly believe that children growing up with siblings with special needs are going to be the ones to change this world.

Their lives are affected just as much as everyone else’s.  Their childhood is so different in so many ways from their peers.  Us parents try our hardest to give them the most “typical” childhood we can but they see the struggles, they see how stranger’s react, they may hear their peers talk about their siblings.  Unfortunately they  might be put on the back burner at times, despite our promises to ourselves as parents to never do that, but it happens.

They also see the successes, the hard work, the joys and get a whole different view of the world.

My son, Corbin, and the other siblings I have met are genuinely some of the most empathetic, kind, patient children I have ever met.

As Autism Awareness Month approached Corbin really wanted to find a way to raise his own contribution to our yearly Walk for Autism event.  He and I decided to approach his principal and see if we could designate a “Spirit Day” and ask his peers to make a donation to his cause to participate.  Corbin wanted to do “Pajama Day” for two reasons:

  1. It’s comfy.  Who doesn’t want to wear their pajamas all day?
  2. Pajamas are seriously Brian’s uniform of choice.

Corbin’s principal came back with an answer and raised the stakes.  It turned out a “Spirit Week” was already in the making but she was going to announce it as
“Autism Awareness Week” and encourage the children to donate each day.  All funds received would be donated to Corbin for him to donate to the Autism Society of Maine.

spiritweekcollageCorbin was so excited about this and really put a lot of thought into each day’s theme. He wore his ribbon and did his best to explain to his peers about autism.  He’s just an amazing big brother.  I’m forever proud of him for his initiation, love, acceptance, and support that he shows.  He’s an incredible little person.

All in all, the school raised $137!  We’re so excited and thankful for the school’s and student’s participation and support!  Thank you!

Heather Nelson

About Heather Nelson

Heather resides in Rockland where she is busy juggling life as a newlywed, a mom to two boys (one of which who has autism), a part time job in direct sales, and a full-time job as a pediatric occupational therapy assistant. She has a love for live music, karaoke, and cheering on the underdogs.