Matthew
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Our son Matthew has come a long way since his diagnosis with autism, yet there are still struggles. Like every parent, we wish for him to be surrounded by caring people when we are no longer here. Golden Heart Ranch gives us hope that our child will be in good, loving hands and will be given a chance to feel he can contribute and feel a sense of independence within a safe community.
Michele and Alan Arslan |
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Liam
Liam was diagnosed as “severely autistic” at age 2. The journey has been extraordinary and the family challenges unimaginable. Along the way, our family has become so strong and our love for one another without words. But in moments of reflection, Eddie and I share the daily nightmare of every parent like us: “What will happen when we are no longer around to love and protect this sweet, charming and vulnerable being?” We’d like to transform that nightmare into the realization that the dream of Golden Heart Ranch represents – a safe, caring, nurturing and independent environment that will allow Liam to continue to flourish.
Despite common misconceptions about autism, Liam is funny, creative, affectionate, compassionate and mischievous. He loves adventure and people and laughing and making others laugh. His humor is ironic and sophisticated. His knowledge and use of words is creative and intriguing. But to understand our children, it often requires that we LISTEN carefully to who they are and what they are trying to say. The “real” world is so loud and fast and focused on self, that the magic of our kids is often overlooked.
I long for Liam to reside in a place where he will be seen, heard and appreciated, the way his is now at home and at school. And I pray that we can create an environment called Golden Heart Ranch that will do just that. I want that for all our kids, because they all are “ours”.
Mari-Anne and Eddie Kehler |
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Tyler
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Tyler Carron
Tyler is 15 and my heart. Everyday a piece of my heart would break worrying what would happen to my son. This Golden Heart Ranch Project has begun to put my heart back together, as I know he will have a Special Place now to continue to grow be safe and happy throughout his life....Thanks Golden Heart
Mary and Richard James
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Austin
Austin is the happiest person I know – with or without special needs. He knows what makes him happy, and he pursues it. One of the most important things that makes him happy is music – especially Michael Jackson! Sometimes I think the ipod was invented just for Austin. Austin is lucky to have a sister that cares so much about him that she volunteers in several special needs-related charities – and even started one of her own: Autism Siblings. Without Golden Heart Ranch, the burden on his sister to care for him when I am unable to would be enormous.
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Our Kids
