First and foremost, I want to thank all of Stephen's supporters for your awesome display of compassion this weekend, and also for all of the E-mail that was sent out in his defense (and all children and adults like him, who face this kind of battle every day). I actually received a half-assed apology from Beaner of the Beaner and Ken show. I'm not sure if it's legal to post that here or not. If anyone has the answer to that, let me know.
Finally~After promising Stephen all weekend that we'd go to the ball field and practice soccer...he had a BIG time yesterday! The above photo was my favorite shot. Look at that balance control! He's going to do well in the Special Olympics Soccer Games in May! Yeah! He is trying his best to run these days, and doing quite well with it! He doesn't fall down near as much as he used to. Meaning, he wears his helmet less at school. He HATES the helmet, and I can't blame him. I have a picture of him with it on somewhere and I'll try to find it... He hates it so much, he's been known to hide it from me on several occasions so he wouldn't have to wear it. But, for liability (and safety) reasons, he can't attend school without it. Stephen has heat intolerance, meaning he can have a heat stroke when the rest of us feel fine... Something I've noticed about a lot of people who have suffered brain damage. Another interesting tidbit of info-the same neurons in the brain which tells you, you are over heating, also tells you when you are over eating. Well, this is one part of Stephen's brain that is not functioning and he eats, however full he may be, and he continues to play, no matter how hot he is. He just isn't able to connect the dots there. Interesting, hmm? Well, that is all I'm going into with Neurology lessons today :)
On a side note, I want to thank all of you again for your acts of kindness, and support over the weekend. I have a feeling, that all of our voices are ringing in their ears. Even if it's just for a moment. Even, if it makes them stop and remember all of this controversy before they crack the next joke, or laugh at such a thing. They may joke in the future, and laugh at the jokes in the future, but somewhere in the back of their hearts, their going to remember this...if only for a moment.
12 comments:
you are very right about thinking twice. I really think that this weekends comment and story touched everyone who read it:) I am glad that they sent an apology, I wish it had been more sinciere. Great photo of Stephen! He is doing a great job!
Wonder what he will think about all our emails!!!!!!! ???? I bet he will think twice atleast. You know I dont think there is anything wrong with you posting your wording in general of what he says at all. I dont see anything wrong with saying what he said in whole either. I mean he did a live show and you are commenting on that and sent your letter and you would not mind him airing it so it was about a publicly broadcasted show and that resposnse is related to that public broadcast. But if you want to feel safe about it then just re word it a bit or put the whole thing he wrote in quotation marks and give him credit by saying this is ________ _________ response. WOW you sure got a neat pic of him. Looks like he is having so much fun. Lori http://beta.journals.aol.com/my78novata/LorisLaurels/
I'm sure that, even if they won't admit it, those who were contacted WILL take this to heart. They'd have to be heartless not to. And I doubt, seriously, that they're heartless people. I don't think people understand the hurt their words [or laughter] can cause, Mia, unless you tell them. So we've done the right thing by voicing it.
As for those neurons that tell you you're full.. I think, like Stephen, mine are all messed up. LOL Or, at least, I like that excuse. ::wink::
He looks good on the field!!! Way to go, S!
You know, I just don't picture Ralphie May out there kicking the soccer ball around. I'd like to see Stephen take him on in a little one-on-one!
I'll be on Stephen's side of the field!
Illegitimi Non Carborundum.
Love the pic! Always love Stephen's photos - such a beauty! Very interesting tidbit about the neurons in Stephen's brain. I find all that fascinating actually. Because once we understand it, we can adjust life accordingly. I used to hide my reading glasses and say they were lost, in first grade. I never wore glasses again. [then again, I never read much either...hmmm] Stephen, wear that helmet if need be! hugs and kisses from me-n-Hunny!
Glad that the Beaner relented and at least made a stab at appologizing. I don't see any reason that you can't post an email that was addressed to you. Now, Soccer, "COOL". I played soccer from 5th grade to 9th grade when I switched over to football. I "lettered" each year I played soccer. I was a Forward. Tell Stephen I said "HOO HAA!!". Man. That is great that he likes soccer. My regards, Bill.
What other families measure in GPA's and graded essay assignments, our family revels in the single spoken word, the independent getting dressed, or the joy that comes from a brief but deep glimpse into the soul of our angels. My world is greater than I could ever have imagined.
Love the pic and Stephen looks like he is having the time of his life!
I missed the controversy, I'll comment on that later.
Just from the picture I can see the balance! He's come a long way! I know he's gonna to well in the olympics and have so much fun! Great photo of Stephen.
Love and hugs to you both, Penny
I thought I left a comment here! dang. I didn't.
Well. here I am to say Stephen looooks great!! It sounds like his improvement with balance is coming along very nice, due to the fact that his parents are so great and stephen is a little warrior dude. :)
I am also glad about the beaner thing, glad they heard the voice of love and not of the laghter of ignorance....or something like that. :P I am just glad mia that you took a stand and then let us know about this issue. otherwise, I wouldn't have known. You bring the issues to my mind and for that I thank you. xo
I went back and read the letters armandt sent! What a person to have on your side! =)
Great picture of our Stephen!
This is another great pic of Stephen! I can tell he really loves playing soccer.
As their target audience, we all should let entertainers know when they cross the line and start to offend, even though anyone with an ounce of decency should know better.
I agree with Billbinford's comment in the last entry, hit them where it hurts, in the pocketbook. Complaining to their sponsors is the best way to let them know we mean business!
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