Parker, or Super P to his friends and family, is an active and happy four-year-old little boy. Like most little boys, he loves causing chaos and mayhem wherever he goes. Unlike most little boys, Parker is our homie with an extra chromie and was also recently diagnosed with Autism. Having Down Syndrome comes with many physical limitations such as low muscle tone, spinal instability, pronated ankles, gastrointestinal problems, etc. However, with a dual diagnosis, Parker is also non-verbal with the inability to communicate without an ASL or a technological device. Although this makes life challenging, you wouldn’t know it when Parker is running through the house to chase after the brownies he knows are on the kitchen counter or when he is watching his favorite show, Pocoyo, in his room. Naturally an introvert, Parker likes to spend time alone in his room playing with his foam letters and decompression tubes while enjoying his programs.
Parker enjoys spending time with both sets of grandparents and has formed a close relationship with them over the past four years. Parker’s sister, Sarah, is extremely helpful and loves to let their parents know what he is doing. She is his biggest champion, defender, and police officer to ensure Parker is both doing what he is told and defending his honor whenever it is warranted. Like most older brothers you will find Parker putting his feet in Sarah’s face on long car rides and trying to take her food and, you guessed it, like most little sisters, Sarah does not enjoy this at all. Parker and his dad love to wrestle and swing outside. On nice days Parker spends most of his time in his saucer swing watching the leaves on the trees and the clouds float on by.
Parker and his mom spend their time together with lots of cuddles, and she is his appointment buddy. The two can be seen together riding around in the blue swaggin’ wagon (minivan) with the windows rolled down listening to music on their way to his next appointment. With a smoothie in one hand and a smile on his face, Parker enjoys the simple things in life that most of us take for granted. Parker is liked by all and loved by most. There is not a person we work with that does not become infatuated with our guy.
Though P is a laid-back kid he does have to face constant challenges. Parker is a sensory seeker and has high anxiety. Vests and compression clothing seems to help keep him relaxed. When he is going through sensory overload, he also seeks vestibular input, which happens several times a day. Like a monkey, Parker is often seen hanging upside down, being carried fireman style or swinging while leaving doctors appointments. His parents may get some odd looks, but once the people around him hear him giggling there’s not a person in the room that isn’t laughing and smiling right along with him.
You can also mail a check or money order to:
W.A.G.S. 4 Kids
112 East Center Street
Berea, OH 44017
Please make a memo that your donation is in the name of Parker.
All donations will be used to help support other W.A.G.S.' kids in need.