Kids with "exceptionalities" (learning , physical, emotional and mental disabilities) often are either held back or made to feel they just sometimes cant do what others can.
My nephew is the first autistic person to compete and finish Gravel Worlds.
This kid (he is around 11-13 mentally) is an extremely hard working young man and we couldnt be more proud.
Seeing the rest of those training with him really makes you take a step back for what simple things can bring so much joy.
One of them learned to ride a bike for the first time and it was like he won the lottery. [Reply]
Originally Posted by Lprechaun:
So Saturday Joshua did his first 100 mile race in Emporia Kansas, 10 hours total time and due to the weather had to carry his bike for 2 miles thru mud. At 64 miles he tells his trainer " I don't think I want to be Superman anymore".... His trainer reassured him that even Superman didn't always want to be, but because of his power he had a responsibility.
He then outpaced his coach for the last 36 miles and crossed the finish line fist pumping!!
Love this. What an amazing trainer to keep pushing him like that, but most importantly what a ****ing heart on Joshua! Tell Superman thanks for the motivation. [Reply]
Originally Posted by IowaHawkeyeChief:
They need to set up a Special Needs Trust.
I think that Scho's brother and his wife are less concerned about the money aspect and more about the personal/emotional well-being of their adult child once they have passed.
You can set up all the monetary needs that will take care of him/her, but finding a situation/group home that will provide the love and support needed is not always guaranteed.
Being the parents of a 32 y/o adult on the autism spectrum with much the same level of concerns my wife and I have grave concerns.
The problem is that there are resources available but those are maxxed out as they can be. Finding good group homes is not at all easy because they have long wait lists. And the ones that are available many times seem a bit sketchey. [Reply]
Originally Posted by IowaHawkeyeChief:
They need to set up a Special Needs Trust.
Strictly from a financial perspective, they should consider an ABLE account as well as consider a Special Needs Trust. Beyond that, they should look into the various types of Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) available in their state. Supports and services have been evolving over the past generation, and congregate settings such as group homes are being utilized less and less. There have been a lot of advances in supporting people with disabilities in the community that promote both independence and inclusion.
