Around early 2021 I was introduced to a young man entering year 10, previously diagnosed with Aspergers (level 1 ASD) and ADHD, we met in his grandparents house where he was living. Paul was quite reserved and sad having retreated inside himself, a coping mechanism for when the outside world gets a bit too much. A very bright boy who has a passion for games, lego and movies, it was evident from our first meet that Paul had sparks inside him that wanted to express themselves.
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When we first met, Paul was barely attending school, was minimal on self care and felt somewhat threatened in his environment due partly to communication issues with his grandparents. Initially I think I began collecting him from school two days a week and we would hang out for an hour or so. Paul came to trust me as our relationship grew and he could see that I was always going to be there or close by when things got too much for him.
As with other children I've had in my care, miracles don't happen overnight yet by the end of year 10 Paul was attending school regularly and any hiccups that occurred along the way were handled with Paul's input. As Paul's family was seeing positive results my time with him grew to school drop offs and pick ups 3 times a week and at least half a day together on the weekends. We had two winter holidays together where I chaperoned Paul and his friend on skiing excursions. I don't ski myself, so I patiently waited for the boys each day at the bottom of the slopes. It's somewhat of a metaphor but is associated with the practice of "being there" for my clients as Paul knew where to find me (bottom of the slopes) and that he could rely on me being there whenever he needed me.
NOW IN 2024
Paul went on to complete high school in 2023 whilst also becoming the only prefect in his school from a supported class. This year will be the beginning of the end of my work with Paul but due to the bond we've formed I'm sure we will always be in touch. From the end of year 11 I was also tasked with teaching Paul to drive and today on his second attempt he passed his driving test and is now a provisional driver. To say the children grow on you is an understatement as I must admit after Paul successfully attained his license I did shed a few tears. The tears a parent sheds when their child leaves the nest, yet I am so extremely proud of this young mans achievements and the person who he has become.
I suppose I'm going to miss going on long drives with him!
Fly on young man, go forth into this world and shine bright as now I move on to the next chapter, the next young person who needs their "mentor"
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