His Voice
When I was two and a half years old, I was diagnosed with Autism. At first, it was really tough for my family to understand me, but one thing never changed, my love for them. They had to learn that I just expressed it differently.
I had some delays in my development, like not being able to use the potty chair until I was four years old, and not speaking until almost seven. But my family and my specialist worked with me every day to help me communicate using tools, and eventually with words. They also helped me deal with my sensory overloads so that I could become the best version of myself.
Over time, I started doing things that the doctors had said I wouldn't be able to do. I found my voice and used it! I started asking for things that I wanted, like playing with my trains and building blocks, using my iPad, and going to the park. Although my words were sometimes hard to understand, my family's prayers, love, and patience, along with the help of skilled professionals and teachers, showed me that I could defy the odds after all!
Now, as a high schooler, I'm really active in sports and I love volunteering, especially for people who are less fortunate than me. I also help my classmates when they need it. Thanks to all the support and services that I received, I'm able to articulate my words, feelings, and thoughts really well.
I hope you'll follow my journey and my mission at Jaden's Voice. It's super important that families get the support they need to help their children find their voice, even if it's not verbal.
-Jaden