The Nathan Series 2/4: Karen, Mom

It was blazing hot in Louisiana, after all, it was just April! Pulling up at the state capital in Baton Rouge I noticed my fellow St. Charles Parish, chosen partners in policymaking were parking just in front of me. This was one of the required events and we were glad to be there. We were there to flood the steps of the state capital with yellow shirts showing support and unity. As we’re arriving at the capital buses are unloading 100s, they are getting in place. We found refuge inside in the AC. Nathan is settled at a table and my friend asked if I could help carry her son who is wheelchair-bound out onto the steps, of course! Nathan is happy to stay inside, but it’s what I see when I return that amazes me. Yes, Nathan’s mom knows he “hung the moon” and doesn’t see anything impossible. After our required Rally Time, I see Nathan at the table inside, he is standing and seems to be communicating something. This man that had joined the table where I left Nathan explains how my Nathan at nine years old was signing and singing the lead song for his spring choir performance at his elementary school “the power of one.” Nathan had taken it upon himself to tell anyone and everyone that even if he stood alone, he would share how he could and others like him CAN make a difference and that there is power in even one person’s actions. A self-advocate at age 9, though he didn’t know. This kind and amazed man then told me how he comes to lobby for the arts in public schools so that money will be continued for programs, such as choir and music. With tears in his eyes, he how touched he was. Experienced anything like this, and he vowed to fight and continue to make the journey to the state capital and that, students with special needs must be included! a priority! My Nathan, all by himself had been the power of one!

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