Believe in Yourself - Week of Nov. 18th

Cam & Brody

“Like flowers; we may all look different on the outside, but we can all grow together in the same garden.”

Mister Rogers taught many of us concepts and understanding when we didn't even realize we were learning by watching his show.
“Part of the problem with the word 'disabilities' is that it immediately suggests an inability to see or hear or walk or do other things that many of us take for granted. But what of people who can't feel? Or talk about their feelings? Or manage their feelings in constructive ways? What of people who aren't able to form close and strong relationships? And people who cannot find fulfillment in their lives, or those who have lost hope, who live in disappointment and bitterness and find in life no joy, no love? These, it seems to me, are the real disabilities.” ~Fred Rogers, The World According to Mister Rogers: Important Things to Remember

At school this week, Cam had the opportunity to test out the "hug boat" made out of inflatable vinyl for his reading time.  At PT, he worked on his sitting and balance with Mr. Patrick.

Saturday mid-morning, Jane received a message from Jenny asking if she could volunteer for a few hours at Brody's be Cafe since they were short-handed.  Cam's mom asked if he wanted to come along to assist as a greeter.  He was more than excited to pitch in.  One of Cam's best friends, Brody, is the inspiration behind Brody's be Cafe.  The Cafe's message is to encourage all to "be"..."be-lieve" "be yourself" "be kind" and the list goes on.

Brody's be's mission statement: To offer a coffee shop that provides a safe and enjoyable work environment for individuals with intellectual and developmental delays along with other special needs. To create a place of acceptance for all people in the community; a place to receive, and give back. Brody’s be Cafe will provide an opportunity for people with, and without special needs, to work together. This cafe will provide a place where everyone can come together to feel purpose, importance, and to realize that we aren’t all that different on the inside.

Cam & Ms. Jenny,
Owner of Brody's be Cafe

After a busy afternoon of greeting, helping and even float decorating for the upcoming holiday parade, Cam told his mom it was hard work, but a lot of fun.
Cam is a future employee, Jane is a member of the Cafe's board of directors, and Chris is their unofficial network administrator.  As a family, this non-profit venture means so very much to us for so many reasons.  The next time you're close to Ada, be sure to stop by at 7267 Thornapple River Drive and then drop by our home since you're only 5 minutes away!
Camology Quotes:

Cam has always seemed to have an internal clock.  He instinctively knows when meals are without knowing the actual time and his teachers have indicated the same thing at school.  Cam's teacher has told his parents, "he honestly knows his schedule better than I do!"  On Sunday, Jane was drinking a preparation medicine for a routine medical procedure.
Every hour, the following messages were heard:
"Mom, did you set your timer?  Are you drinking your medicine?  Do you know when your next dose is?"