Looking back, starting RPM was somewhat of a massive undertaking. First long year, we didn't make a lot of progress. It took Soma's help hearing our struggles to finally offer up intuitive advice.
It was my dream to be able to communicate. After meeting Soma for the first time I really thought there might be hope finally. Soma was so patient. She believed in me right away. Mom and Dad were somewhat sorry they hadn't realized learning was such a path to illustrating possibilities they had thought out of my capability. After we saw Soma, they were determined. RPM earned their trust and they were going to have success. It was hard at first. Mom really was busy with my baby sister and didn't have the time to work with me all the time. Dad tried, but he was not very patient.
Pointing to the letter board was really hard. My careful pointing didn't go the way I planned. Great pointing happened with Soma, but not with my parents. The problem was hard to figure out. Mom learned to put rolled pieces of tape on each letter on the letter board to increase the feedback when I touched the board. It really made it easier for me to focus on what letter I was touching. Pointing on the letter board became so much easier. I decided I wanted to try typing on a keyboard. Had an easy time transitioning. Like using the keyboard.
Learning to communicate is the best thing I've ever done. Like my making people think that more is possible for their loved ones. It's not often that great opportunities teach us so many important lessons.
Kaylie - you are such an amazing person! I am so glad that RPM has helped you communicate and I hope that more people will try that method. How blessed we all are to be able to hear what you have to say! Peace & Love to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteHello Kaylie,
ReplyDeleteI just saw you on the WGRZ news website. I think it is amazing that you are able to express your thoughts and feelings so eloquently! I will definitely be reading your blog from now on.
I am from Canada, and I have been teaching people with Autism for 6 years now. Your story is the kind that brings hope to everyone who hears it. I often have students that I'm sure are able to do more than the simple lessons they have mastered, but I struggle with overcoming their personal barriers.
I have two questions for you:
-Before you started RPM, could you read a little already?
-Did you find the picture exchange method even a little helpful for expressing basic needs?
I am so happy that you have found a way of expressing yourself. I think that communication is one of the most important things in life.
Dear Kaylie,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for sharing your very inspiring story! I have no doubt that you will achieve your goal of inspiring autistic people to accomplish new things, and hopefully your story will inspire all people to be patient with one another, and to appreciate the gifts that every human being offers. It is very brave and wonderful for you to share your feelings in this blog. Your writing is beautiful and descriptive. I hope that you will continue to accomplish wonderful things....achievement builds self-confidence and resilience. How awesome it is that you have a loving family, and people in your life who care about you so much. God bless you and your family.