For a mother, the bond with her child is unlike any other. It’s a tapestry woven with dreams, unwavering support, and a love that knows no bounds. For mothers of children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), this tapestry often shimmers with an extra thread of resilience, a deeper understanding, and a fierce, protective love that navigates unique paths and celebrates every milestone, big or small.
This Mother’s Day, we honor these extraordinary women, including the dedicated mothers within the Laradon community, who pour their hearts into ensuring their children are seen, heard, and given every opportunity to flourish
Every mother who has entrusted her child to Laradon has navigated a unique journey, advocating tirelessly for their children’s right to an inclusive and empowering education. Krista’s journey with her son, Matthew, brought them to Laradon a little over two years ago. Leaving Matthew’s lifelong school felt like a significant shift, especially as he was among the first in an Independent Learning Classroom at his old school. Yet, the transition to Laradon unfolded with unexpected ease.
“Laradon has been amazing for him,” Krista recalls. “Everyone here is just phenomenal with him. I am so much more at ease, and I am so thankful for all of these wonderful humans. They are part of my village now.”
Since joining the Laradon community, Matthew has blossomed into a caring, funny and sweet human that radiates positivity just like his mom.
But like anyone, there are days where he struggles more. Mornings and deviations from routine can be particularly difficult for Matthrew.
“Today, he was really upset over his shoe. So that turned into a whole meltdown of crying and throwing stuff around. He is very difficult to deal with when he’s in that headspace, but he just needs time to calm down on his own and that is something I have learned,” Krista explains.
These intense moments can be emotionally and physically draining. Krista has come to understand the vital importance of self-care, ensuring her own well-being remains a priority. She has also learned that this is not a journey that needs to be conquered alone.
“It’s important to have open dialog with teachers and your support circles along with trusting yourself because you always know what’s best for your kid and that instinct will kick in and you will always figure it out,” Krista shares.
Similar to Matthew’s growth, another Laradon student, Aidan, has flourished since starting at the school a year ago.
“His behavior has decreased dramatically. He’s become more independent. He’s more tolerant of things, like waiting in line, doing tasks that he’s not familiar with and listening to instructions,” Aidan’s mom Adrienne explains.
Adrienne has been Aidan’s biggest champion, describing her 19-year-old son as the “light of their lives.” Before Aidan, Adrienne had limited exposure to the IDD community, a world she once perceived as segregated. But, that all changed when Aidan came into the world.
“I have met so many people in the IDD community, and they are literally angels on earth. I wouldn’t have been exposed to all of this without him,” Adrienne reflects.
Adrienne has had time to learn how to best support Aidan throughout his life. Above all, she has learned to always see the possibilities and potential in others.
“He knows so much more than what we give him credit for,” Adrienne explains. “At 19, he is who he is. I’ve come to completely accept him for that, and I think he’s happier and more comfortable in his own self because he understands it. “
One particularly shining moment for Adrienne was witnessing Aidan’s progress with his augmentative communication device. This technology has opened a new world of expression for him.
“He made a comment the other day that he was afraid, and we never would have known that without him being able to use his communication device,” she expressed proudly.
This Mother’s Day, we celebrate Krista and Adrienne, two remarkable mothers whose love and fierce advocacy have helped their sons, Matthew and Aidan, overcome significant obstacles and now thrive at Laradon. Their stories are a testament to the extraordinary bond between a mother and her son, a bond that illuminates the path forward with hope and possibilities. .
By: Katey Lewicki, Communications Coordinator
