Teagan today: 2019 |
Many of these people we would not have otherwise met merely because it was a single diagnosis that brought us together. The plan was written long before Teagan and I but was brought to light that faithful day in April when autism became his label. But the label can not adequately describe what is in Teagan and these people saw there was more than a label. A little light flickering inside him would became a fire that grew stronger with each breath these angels took.
As the story played out, those who only knew his name would change the course of the story and keep it on track. These people were not merely showing up for work each day, but they were showing up in a little boy’s life and crafting it into something that would be more epic than a Shakespearean tale. These people were regular folks who worked tirelessly to transform a little life from just being to thriving: not just ordinary people but amazing people using their gift to do extraordinary tasks. Their work often unseen would make a difference that would impact the journey of Teagan. And his accomplishments would be credited to them.
Just a few of the Amazing teachers Teagan had the honor to have |
Just a few of the Amazing Coaches Teagan had the honor to play for |
Over the years, through fundraisers, Team Teagan has been able to help local individuals who are diagnosed with autism. We purchased a bicycle for an adult on the spectrum who needed a way to get to work. We have purchased weighted blankets for children on the spectrum so they could rest and get some sleep that had alluded them. We purchased a service dog for a child who needed a canine friend. We have sent kids to specialized summer camps. We have paid therapy bills, electric bills, and bought school supplies. We have donated to groups on a similar autism mission who had a broader reach then we had. And each one of these donations helped a person or family get through another day on the spectrum. But I wanted more. My goal was always to help out a vast number of children, those who I would never know their name, their face, or their story.
After much thought and prayer, I found an opportunity to extend the reach of Team Teagan at a local primary school. And not just any school but the one where Teagan started his journey. This school's staff is credited with helping Teagan get through the autism tunnel and find light to lead a fulfilling life and overcome the struggles the diagnosis brings. The donation did more than I could ever envision! Roughly two hundred items purchased for a total of $14,000. At this primary school we were able to take an empty room and turn it into a sensory room equipped with visual, tactile and other sensory toys. We added to the playground- two new swings and a merry go cycle. The sensory room is a calming space for relaxation while stimulating the little one's brains. Glorious space! Team Teagan was also able to donate funds, so the school could add various equipment and technology to bring the Special Ed rooms up to date. The rooms also feature two large touchscreen interactive smartboards. Amazing!
Example of Merry Go Cycle, Heartland
Example of Clevertouch Interactive Board
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This donation was the opportunity to fulfill a life goal of helping others for years and years....many people...having a reach that is beyond my imagination. Giving teachers and aids the supplies they need to help these children reach a new level of achievement. Touring the facility was a very touching, emotional, and exciting experience for Teagan and I!
Teagan touring the new outdoor play area. |
This donation was not about paying back but paying forward. It is a gift in honor of all those who played a role in our story and helping the next child and parent who walks through the threshold, scared of the unknown. Whether you donated time or money to Team Teagan, whether you were a shoulder to cry on when the story was bleak, if you put your soul into helping Teagan, or you were just an encourager, a fellow autism warrior, this gift is in your name. From volunteers to donors, to friends and family, to parents, to coaches, to teachers, to aids and therapist, you are the heart of what makes Team Teagan beat. And we graciously end the month of Autism Awareness with this:
Continue to fight the good fight to bring light to generations of kids and adults who wake up and challenge the status quo of the autism spectrum disorder!
View this photo gallery of all the wonderful items this school is using in the PPCD room!