December 8, 2022
Our Coop’s Troop Sensory Santa Event
Last night was one of those really special nights.
Our family, along with 20 or so other families, spent an evening with Santa.
Some kids lined up chairs. Another watched an old 1950’s train docu-series on YouTube.
One young man used his speech device to ask Santa for a horse. Another young man wore noise canceling headphones the entire time.
Some kids sat near Santa. Some led him around by the hand. Others just waved.
One little girl was dressed up in a tutu. Others in Jammie’s. My son wore a shirt with Santa on it.
It was perfect.
A year or so ago, when I realized that our family can’t always do what other families can, I decided to make it happen.
What’s that saying…build it and they will come?
I did it. For us and for them. A Santa who sees kids like my son. Who listens with more than his ears.
So many moms cried tonight. Tears of joy. Because they have never seen their kids with Santa before. Or got a family photo with him. I know we haven’t.
I want my kids to experience all the world has to offer. And that takes a little help. An open space. A special Santa. Friends. Amazing people. And amazing kids.
Next month we are snow tubing and taking sleigh rides. I’m not sure what’s after that. But we will do something. We will get these families out into the world.
‘I don’t mean to cry…it’s just taken so many years for us to do something like this. My son needed this. I needed this. Thank you.’
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.
