This is Why We Celebrate Everything

The email I just received said ‘I wish I had video of Cooper walking into school today. No one walked past him without him reaching out and then tapping his head to show off his new haircut. He was very proud!’

Last night Cooper had his hair cut. In our home. By a family friend.

It was his best haircut ever. He sat the whole time and watched his iPad. We counted during the hard parts. Chatted about his rewards for being so amazing. Held hands. Took lots of deep breaths.

I think it’s important to tell you that Cooper is the hardest working person I know. Most people wouldn’t think that. They hear autism or disability or even see him struggle and they assume things.

And I know for sure it’s not how hard he works just to be in this world.

Eight years ago, during Cooper’s first haircut at a Cost Cutters, and before we knew about autism, the stylist started crying and refused to finish his cut.

Security had actually been called by a customer to check on a child screaming.

I said I would never put him through that experience again. If it had to be cut, than I would do it. I am his safe space and I would protect him.

For the last 8 years I cut his hair in our home. Some times I had to hold him on my lap. Some times I got hurt. He cried. I cried. It was awful. Both of us absolutely dreaded haircut day. It was like a marathon and a sprint and a boxing match in one.

But we practiced. We never, ever gave up on him.

We practiced sitting. Waiting. Being touched. Tolerance of sounds. Wearing a cape. Patience. Understanding rewards. Encouragement. Timers. Asking for breaks.

Every step we practiced. For 8 years.

This kid is amazing. He had to learn every part of everything to get here. Imagine that. Every part.

Please never underestimate how hard these amazing humans work.

This is why we celebrate everything. He should be proud and he should show everyone his amazing haircut.

He climbed a mountain to get here.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.