Tuesday, December 18, 2007

A Great Moment


We had a moment here on Monday evening that you can probably only appreciate if you love someone on the autistic spectrum. Kimball, who has Asperger's Syndrome, has difficulty standing still at all, but especially when singing, reciting, or performing in any way. He typically spins, sways, and walks around while performing, no matter how many times we might encourage him to stand still. It is a form of self stimulation that is fairly common among kids with autism.
Last night at our weekly Family Home Evening, we had the boys perform solos for us of the "hymn of the week" that we had learned over the previous week. This is a regular part of our FHE routine. Kimball always does great with remembering the words (since his memory is incredible,) but it is usually so difficult to watch him because he is moving so constantly. Last night, without even being reminded by us, he stood still, arms to his side, and sang every word of "O Come, All Ye Faithful." There were tears in my eyes by the end as I realized what he had just done. He knew it, too. He excitedly announced as we were praising his performance, "I didn't even sway or anything!" So not only was he able to stand still, but he was really self aware.
This exciting bit of progress we attribute to the many sessions he has been having in the hyperbaric oxygen chamber over the past couple of months. Up until now, the changes we have noticed have been a willingness to try new foods and an increased awareness in social situations. Last night was a powerful moment for us. I am so grateful for this sweet little boy who teaches us so much and through whom we are able to see the Lord's blessings.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

Kimball is a special kid how exciting that he has made more progress.... It's true what they says it's the little things ... In this busy time its good to stop and count our blessings, Kimball is definitly one....

Mandy

mahina said...

that is wonderful! i love the little progress we see our kids make!

Michelle Constantinescu said...

That's amazing! How exciting to see; and he was singing a very appropriate song for the moment, too!

Michal said...

mandy,
thanks for all you have done through the past few years to help support kimball's growth. i know that one reason he is doing so well is because of the friendship that your family has shown him.
what we do without you?

Unknown said...

Aren't the tender mercies of The Lord wonderful! It is great to hear the progress that Kimball is making. He is such a wonderful boy. I have always had a soft spot in my heart for him.

mindyluwho said...

I'm glad you stopped by so I could discover you, I've spent the last 1/2 hour reading your blog and have thoroughly enjoyed it!

Rebecca said...

Kimball is an absolute cutie. I remember holding him when he was a teeny tiny infant. Way to go and keep up the good work Kimball!

Suldog said...

Wow! That's a magnificent moment. What a wonderful song to have sung for that moment, too.

Merry Christmas, Michal!

Rebecca Blevins said...

What a sweetheart! I know how exciting each new step is for a child with those types of struggles. What a special moment.