The three boys were diagnosed with severe Autism when they were just toddlers.  They have been receiving intensive behavioral intervention, year round, at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Autism, since 2001.  It has been a daily uphill battle to peel away the layers of a complex and mysterious disorder, and replace maladaptive behaviors with good ones. Many children live in the “isolation” that Autism brings, and we are determined to give these boys every opportunity to enhance their lives.

They work very, very hard to learn how to talk, read, write, play, and take care of themselves.  All three boys have made good progress over the years.  For a child with severe Autism, it sometimes takes years to learn simple tasks that we all take for granted such as playing a board game or brushing their teeth.  But we never ever give up! Henri, one of the twins, never developed sufficient language, therefore he uses a speech generating device to communicate. All three boys struggle daily with socializing and learning appropriate behavior.  Even though they have come a long way, we still have very far to go.

The boys are very active and enjoy being in the outdoors in all seasons.  They love to swim, hike in the metro parks, go to the river or the beach at Lake Erie , or romp around in the snow. The hope is that with the intensive intervention they receive, coupled with all of the right supports and experiences, they will be able to live fulfilling lives, and one day hold meaningful jobs and contribute to society. Having the wonderful opportunity to have a dog in the family would enrich their lives in so many ways as well as teach them responsibility towards another living thing.

Make a donation to help Sophia's Kids. 

You can also mail a check to: