From Challenges To Triumphs: The Road To Eagle

Lots of the kids I know who have autism have made some major accomplishments – like being mainstreamed in school or participating in activities with their neurotypical peers. Some kids have even recovered to the point where they no longer meet the autism diagnosis. What most people often don’t realize is the herculean effort that is required for our kids to get to, and stay in, that place. My friend Pattie’s son Brendan is doing amazing and has accomplished so much. I love this story because it highlights how tough the road can be, how much hard work is required, and how no matter how far our kids come we still appreciate every new victory. Their difficult journey makes every little accomplishment that much sweeter. 

The phrase “the road to Eagle” is quite common among those in the community familiar with Boy Scouts. Eagle Scout is the highest attainable rank in the Boy Scouts of America, and preparation begins the moment one joins the Troop. It is a path that has been traveled by thousands of boys. 

Our journey has been very different.  My son Brendan not only had to achieve the standard requirements, some of which are quite rigorous, but he had to accomplish this with autism.  Individuals with autism are said to be “wired differently” – so in Brendan’s case he had to complete these requirements with a somewhat different brain than most.

Brendan is a great kid – eager to please and friendly.   He has some sensory issues.  Like many kids with autism, he is a combination of hypo and hyper sensitive, he cannot tolerate loud noises and has a need for sensory input.  His spatial awareness is spotty.  Focus is a challenge as are non-preferred activities.  He does not read social cues well.  He has dietary restrictions.  You can see how these issues may be too much for a kid to overcome and a challenge for a scout troop to work with. 

 

Brendan is now a Life Scout, the rank below Eagle.  He is actively working on his Eagle project and his last few required merit badges.  It has taken a lot of effort and hard work, a lot from Brendan, his parents, his troop leaders, and the scouts in his troop.  Brendan has worked very hard to learn skills he was not initially interested in, such as to lead activities and to put together things like campfire skits and prayer services.  His dad has worked hard, volunteering as an adult leader, being at meetings every week and going on numerous camping trips and outings.  His troop leaders have worked hard learning about Brendan, autism and diabetes and how both impact him.  They have also worked to make sure he is able to participate in every activity. His scout troop has worked hard, planning menus that are gluten, dairy and soy free that can be cooked on camping trips – including desserts!

One year Brendan went to Scout summer camp without his dad who would join them later in the week.  Over that previous year, everyone had worked with Brendan to overcome his fears.  The zip line was one of these concerns, the height and openness of this activity was too much for him.  We talked to him before going to camp and encouraged him to try new things but also let him know it was OK if he didn’t feel comfortable. 

A few days later, while viewing pictures sent to parents from camp, we saw Brendan on the zip line!  He had a big smile and was flashing a “thumbs up”.  What a proud parent moment!   

 

When Brendan came home from camp, he told me that he was determined to beat his fear and worked with the counselors to help him.  What an accomplishment!  He worked through his fears including sensory concerns and motor planning issues, advocated for himself and did it all with purpose!

Brendan is on the cusp of an amazing accomplishment.  He has learned the give and take of being part of a group.  He has learned to advocate for himself, including asking for help when something is more of a challenge for him.  Everyone’s hard work has paid off, and we are so proud of Brendan and grateful for all who helped along the way.

Pattie Moor is the loving mom of two boys.  Her younger son is diagnosed with autism and type 1 diabetes.  She is an advocate for creating community where everyone is included, valued and can meaningfully contribute.