Alumni Adventures with Connor Capps by Connor’ s Mom, Paula
May 2013 was a scary time in my family’ s life. Connor had just graduated from the Little Light House and the thought of Connor going to public school and being around people we didn’ t know made us nervous.
Fast forward, a few months later to Connor’ s first day of kindergarten. I was still scared and nervous for him but Connor, on the other hand, was not. He loved school and in typical Connor style went in and made himself at home. Yes, I was a little sad that he didn’ t need me, but I was proud. He was growing up.
As my son continues to grow and change I remember what a therapist once told me,“ baby steps.” I now have a journal where I log every funny and new thing that he does. He is learning to use the iPad and has recently discovered TV and enjoys Barney and Thomas the Train.
Anyone who knows my son knows he loves to climb and swing. His new obsession is lying in the hammock and trying not to fall out. He is learning to run and kick a ball as well. He also loves to find food in the fridge and take it out. We have learned to always keep an eye on him; if the house is ever quiet, we know he is up to no good.
Connor is non-verbal and has recently begun saying,“ mama” and in February he said,“ I love you”. When I think about these moments, my heart fills with joy and my eyes tear up because I have waited so long to hear any words.
Connor will be in the 4th grade this fall. He has the most amazing teacher, Ms. Davison, and paras, Ms. Amy, Ms. Natalie and Ms. Z. They look out for him and I love it when they tell me all the funny and naughty things he does.
It can be hard for someone to understand how great an impact the Little Light House can have on a child and their family, but it truly does. I am grateful for the compassion and love they have shown to us. When my son started at the LLH he was three and a half years old and had just recovered from brain surgery the month before. Connor had most of the right side of his brain removed to stop his seizures. We had no idea what the long term outcome of the surgery would be. The staff saw his potential when most people did not. They treated him as a regular kid. They encouraged him and helped him to overcome his vision issues and respected his sensory boundaries. During this time he developed a love for school, which remains to this day.
To be featured, submit your story to events @ littlelighthouse. org
THE BEACON | 15