"There needs to be a lot more emphasis on what a child CAN do instead of what he cannot do." Temple Grandin
Meet Emmett
Emmett is a 12.5 year old boy living with Profound Non-verbal Autism and Intellectual Disability. He also fits into the small percentage of individuals with aggressive physical behaviors that cause harm to either himself or the people around him. He is a 12.5 year old boy who enjoys playing ice hockey, outdoor walks in nature, baking, crafting and painting. The behaviors associated with his autism have left him in crisis. After being denied care from over 30 psychiatric med stabilization units, Emmett became a hostage to the failing mental system and remained in a medical hospital for 123 days in the Summer to Fall of 2021.
During his hospitalization, Emmett spent hours upon hours creating art with his mother to pass the time. Emmett’s room was decorated from floor to ceiling, on every wall, with the brightly colored images that covered the sterile walls with joy. In the 123 days there, Emmett was not permitted to go outside. He was confined to a room in a small unit and eventually moved to an even smaller room in a smaller unit, while he waited for an opening in a long term residential care facility.
Emmett is currently home, awaiting an opening. There is no prediction on when a bed will open. Emmett remains in crisis. He continues to struggle with behaviors and oftentimes is unsafe. He paints everyday!
How can I help ensure Emmett's first art show is a success?