There is Strength in Numbers

Jimmy with his family and Josh Harrod  as he read about his WineFest painting Cafe at Night

The saying that there is strength in numbers is an absolute truth with autism.  Jimmy's success is the culmination of the efforts of many people in his life.

First and foremost, his family.  Surrounded by the love and compassion of his parents and siblings, Jimmy is thriving. This past Saturday night, he presented his painting, Cafe at Night, to a crowd of well over 700 people.  He was a rock star and received a standing ovation. I am humbled by his success finding it hard not to forget the sickly Jimmy laying motionless on the couch or screaming in pain not knowing how to ask for help as he struggled to find words.  His siblings have always believed in him and his potential. Kelly, Jack, Patrick and Ned have been tireless supporters of their brother.  I am a very fortunate mother of five lovely human beings. As parents, Brian and I, could not be more proud of our children - they are good human beings who support each other.

Secondly, there are the legions of professionals that have help Jimmy throughout the years. One of the more important people in Jimmy's life is is Josh Harrod. Josh has been a constant companion, role model, instructor, friend and mentor of Jimmy's.  As I have said many times, angels surround me and support me in my time of need.  This is particularly true with Josh.  In 2007, Jimmy was so sick that we had to remove him from school.  This meant that not only would Jimmy be home bound, but, so would I. I needed help.  I made calls to find someone who would be a fit for Jimmy and our family. I was discouraged as I just didn't seem to find the right person.  Our oldest son, Jack, was a ski racer and needed new skies and boots.  We took Jack to the store....buying new skies and boots can be and was a long process. I got to chatting with the woman at the store and she

Patrick and Ned holding Jimmy's painting during the Live Auction

asked about our other kids. Our conversation turned to Jimmy and his current situation.  It was a very difficult time for me. This lovely older woman said, "my daughter's former boyfriend is moving back to Minnesota - he works with kids with autism and wants a career in autism." She called him from the store. Josh called me later that day.  I knew almost immediately he would be a good fit. Honestly, I had no idea how good it would be. When I say angels surround me in my time of need, I am not kidding.  Josh told me a few months ago, that the woman that I talked with was only at the store that day as a favor to the owner - she was filling in and did not work there. Josh came to us in a time of tremendous need.  He has seem Jimmy at his worst and now at his best.  He was with us on Saturday night. We are fortunate.

As the evening closed on Saturday night, Brenda Weigel, oncologist at the U of MN, asked if I would talk with a couple who has a 7 year old son with autism. I was more than happy to visit with them.  They said that Jimmy gave them hope for their son.  What an honor to be able to give someone hope.  It is an interesting twist.....Jimmy is offering hope to other families and those families give Jimmy the strength, desire and support to do what he does.  Like I said.....there is strength in numbers!