Through the Parent’s Perspective column in the PFO newsletter I’ve enjoyed learning more about the teens and their work through the eyes of their parents. I thought it might be good to share a perspective from the parents of one of the Mitey Riders, Tristan.
I was excited hearing about the PFO Buddy Program because I felt it would be a great opportunity for Tristan. Prior to the beginning of the season several Mitey Rider parents were asked to speak to the teens at their retreat. We were asked to share a little about our children, their diagnoses and to give some suggestions on how to interact and communicate with special needs children.
I’ll admit I was hesitant about how the teens would react to this. Honestly I was prepared to be met with glazed eyes, bored faces and impatience to get out of there. Was I wrong. They listened in rapt attention. They expressed surprise, disbelief and even shed a few tears as they heard us speak. I thought to myself, “they really get it”! They didn’t just hear the words, but they realized the importance of what they were doing and the impact it would have. There was a palatable energy in that arena as they waited until they were instructed to open their envelopes to see who their buddy would be. I stood in amazement. There were shouts, screams and total excitement as they read the name and information of their new buddy.
This energy continued from the first meeting at the park throughout all the activities. You could tell so much thought and effort went into preparing each event. The teens were engaged and worked hard to socialize with their buddies. I’m sure that many of them were uncomfortable and uncertain about how to interact but they never wavered. Peronally, my son Tristan couldn’t wait for each event making sure we marked it on his calendar. He connected with his buddies and even met one of them, Daniel Morrice, for a quick dinner one night. It made his day! But most touching to me was when he brought home a photograph of him and his buddies, put it in his bedroom, then turned to me and said, “My friends.” I think that beautifully expresses the purpose of PFO’s Buddy Program.
As this PFO season winds down, I have bittersweet emotions. I am grateful that Tristan had this wonderful opportunity and I’m sad that it must come to an end. Tristan and I have met so many wonderful people and shared such fun experiences with them. My hope is that we can maintain some contact, however large or small, with his buddies.
I’d like the teens and everyone associated with PFO to know that you have made a difference. You have provided something that a special needs child rarely gets to experience – the gift of friendship. Having someone to hang out with, or work on a project together or just being crazy and sharing a laugh. Things that typical children/teens take for granted. I have been impressed with the enthusiasm, commitment and hard work that you have put into this program. You have touched a child’s life in a very special way and I can only say a heartfelt, “thank you”.
Lisa Kallander, Mom of Mitey Rider Tristan
