Robin
Tuesday, October 14, 2008

I am a family member

My son Landon, 26, was diagnosed with autism at three and a half. We own a hobby farm where we show and teach visitors about our animals. Our farm has been instrumental in helping Landon learn independent working skills by doing what he truly loves—caring for animals and living in the country. Taking care of his critters is a large part of his responsibility and a very effective self-esteem booster. In addition to his farm chores, Landon walks his two Australian Shepherds, Hershey and Chocolate, twice a day. However, his true love is our rabbit family—Buster and Bailey, beautiful white Flemish Giants, and their offspring, Bonnie. They are never far from Landon’s heart. 

The farm has been a positive way to build the responsibility that I so wanted for Landon. Lovingly providing his animals with the care they need leads him forward. Landon’s attitude is very important in managing our hobby farm, and has been a great success for him.

One of my most enjoyable moments is to see him introduce himself and welcome our friends to his farm. What fun it is for him to have the opportunity to share his experiences with others and get them involved as well. Many of them have never seen a chicken or baby rabbit, let alone held or touched one. Our reward is seeing their innocent smiling faces and hearing the unique conversations that arise. Landon also answers questions from our guests, to the best of his ability, with assistance from Mom when needed.

Landon's diagnosis of autism has been a journey filled with loving, sharing and accepting our trials with an attitude of “Every day we are all a work in progress.”

Our motto is encouraging education for unique individuality. I am thankful for the courage and strength to move forward and help my son become the awesome individual he is. Positive reinforcements have been crucial in teaching Landon and helping him progress.

Landon and I feel that reaching out, even in a small way, truly makes a difference in people’s lives.