Recently on a visit to the Beach Center, as JT and I shook hands, he tried to show me his 'special' handshake. Actually he showed me, I tried to learn. Thinking back, that moment was the most valuable Christmas gift I've ever received. I will cherish that moment forever.
As I stood there admiring this amazing gentleman, my mind raced to more than eight years earlier. JT is standing in front of a packed room surrounded by people who love him. At first, he said not a word yet rocked gently. I hold my breath as he scratches himself 'inappropriately'. Ann nonchalantly says now that's typical Frat House behavior. My mind began to race. My son, Sean, didn't have to fit into society's definition of 'normal'. Sean like JT can be the person he wants to be given the right supports.
Then as the PowerPoint presentation began to show photos of his family, friends and favorite activities, he grinned and began helping Ann tell his story.
Sitting in the back row, I scan the room looking for a seat closer. I was hoping to hear the secret. The secret to ensuring Sean was as independent and happy as JT. I had never cried during a conference, but when JT started signing "My name is JT...." I could hardly breathe. After the session, I needed to shake his hand to thank him and tell him how proud of him I was. I told him he was an outstanding leader and my son, Sean, would have a better life because he led the way. He softly said thank you and my heart skipped a beat. It was as if I was hearing JT say Sean will be okay. I saw so much of Sean in JT.
Sean was seven years old and despite my belief in him and his future. I had never been able to reach out and touch someone "just as amazing as Sean". That brief encounter will always be in my heart pushing me to help Sean create the life he would love to have. If JT can do it, so can Sean.
Without JT, we would not have "Ann and Rud Turnbull". The disability world would not have made such tremendous gains. This outstanding trio took on the world and won. They changed the world one moment at a time.
JT will forever remain my HERO! The few times I did see JT were gifts. His smile, gentle hands and heart of gold will truly be missed. Thank you for the amazing gift you shared with my family and the rest of the world.
With Gratitude
Leia Holley
PS A note to JT: I still haven't' learned that "special" handshake.
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