Technically, this isn’t going to be wordless, but the pictures will do a million times more talking than the sentences I’m going to write. I’m posting two pictures of my son Jack, who is my inspiration for Operation Jack. He is severely autistic, nearly 9 years old with limited speech and still in diapers. Since he can’t really talk, he gets upset over his frequent stomach pain and when he gets frustrated about not being able to communicate that to us, he hits himself in the head. We put him in a padded helmet for his own protection, but sometimes he finds ways around it to still punch himself in the head.
He’s a really cute kid. And a really sweet kid. Everybody tries to be nice and positive with us, to find a bright side to what he goes through. In response to his inability to communicate and his abnormal behaviors, a lot of times we hear, “Well, as long as he’s happy … ”
As I was telling my wife Tiffany yesterday, I won’t accept that he’s happy until he tells us he’s happy.
that pic is heartbreaking. I know next to nothing about autism. But, I bet Jack knows for sure that he’s loved.
That photo hurts. There is really nothing anyone could ever say to make you and Tiffany feel better about his situation in life so I won’t try. Only to say that your families story and your dedication to your son has stuck in my head and I pray for you guys often.
I know that you and Tiffany are always trying new therapies and strategies. Did you see the 60 Minutes thing on Sunday about using the iPad with children with autism? It seemed to help some communicate; you probably have already tried this, but if not, maybe it is an option. Anyway, I think you and Tiffany are amazing parents and Jack is a beautiful little boy. All three of your children are fortunate to have you both.
That picture breaks my heart. I pray that one day Jack can tell you and Tiffany, that he is happy. Until then, keep doing what you are doing.
This little guy is my absolute favorite. To see him smile made my day. To see him cry, wrenched my heart. You both are awesome parents!