Friday, October 9, 2009

sharing his story

My school district runs an extensive United Way campaign each year. I always sit and admire the strength of the presenter to share how this organization has impacted their life.

This year, I got to be that presenter.

Lucas has received services from 2 local agencies that are funded by the United Way. I've traveled to each of our district's building's faculty meetings to share Lucas's story and talk about how the early intervention services he has received have impacted his outcome immensely.

At the first meeting I attended, I couldn't hold it together. I cried almost the whole time. I don't know if that will ever change, although I've held it together much better at the other meetings so far. Lucas came along, and everyone got to see him in person. He was so great, and really helped my little presentation. Yesterday was my own building's faculty meeting, but Lucas was sleeping, so he couldn't come. Instead, I made the following video to share. I think it made just as much of an impact, if not more. It's a slightly different version from the one that I showed, for privacy sake. Enjoy!!!

6 comments:

leah said...

You need a "kleenex warning" on this! What a great video, and it is REALLY wonderful to show the United Way (and other organizations that help) what a huge impact they really have on our children's lives. You are such a dedicated and loving mama!

Julia said...

I agree with Leah -- it's a beautiful tear-jerker! I've seen some of those videos before, but it's really amazing and moving when they're put together and you get a sense of the journey and the emotional context.

And was that an /s/ I heard at the beginning of "socks"? Very impressive -- we're still working on that one.

Melanie said...

Wonderful video. I need Kleenex too. He is doing SO well- great job, Mama. And by the way, where did you get the "cochlea" necklace? I love it!

Susannah said...

what an amazing video- i loved how you wove his story together. and i love when he says banana!

Bill and Shelly said...

Wow....what a great video. I love how he says banana.
He is doing an amazing job and so are you.
It is great that you are able to get Lucas' story out there for others to hear and be encouraged by.

tammy said...

Okay I need to go get some Kleenex now! You all are such amazing parents and have impacted the lives of so many! I can't believe how fast the time has gone, it seems like just yesterday I saw Lucas coo when you put in his hearing aids ... and now he's saying things like sock and banana. Words can't describe. Give him hugs and kisses! Love him!