Reading so many of those wonderful stories inspired me to share my son’s story as well because I am so proud of how far he’s come since being diagnosed with Pervasive Development Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) at age 5. During his years in elementary school, the staff told us he would not likely earn a standard diploma, and we should settle for some lesser options. My wife, Cathy, and I knew better, confident that in the right environment he would show his abilities.
We knew public middle school would not be an appropriate option and enrolled Connor at Classical Christian Academy for his middle and high school years. He adapted well to the small class sizes and graduated in 2020 with distinction and a 3.6 GPA. He was one of only two graduates that completed a Capstone project, which is defined as a multifaceted body of work that serves as a culminating academic and intellectual experience for students.
I am proud of the way he worked through each day’s challenges to complete his primary education. Even after graduating, he continues to persevere, which I understand is not easy, and I continue to be proud of his efforts to succeed. He is a loving, hardworking, quiet, humble young man with a strong work ethic and a positive outlook on life. We talk about the challenges ahead in his new school programs and how to deal with them. He maintains an optimistic attitude and seems ready for the next chapter in his life, which he plans to involve working on helicopters.
Connor has always shown an interest in helicopters, and he has told us over the years he wants to be a helicopter inspector/maintenance technician. This month, Connor will begin a technical college to study aviation airframe and engine maintenance (Airframe and Power plant), which is the base training to progress him towards his career goal.
Love, support and understanding has been the key to his success. Connor tells us he has a gift for attention to detail that keeps him focused to complete his courses. We have regular discussions about what his interests are and how we can help him pursue those interests. Whether it’s preparing for school or discussing his interests for employment, I feel he needs to hear and be aware of the challenges ahead. I try to prepare him for what life may throw at him and remind him to always do his best.
I hope he finds happiness in his life, whatever that may be. He talks of his dream job and someday having a family and a home to take care of. I hope he gets every opportunity to succeed and share the talents he has been given. He is one special young man.
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