Colton is Graduating

This guy, though.

Colton is the epitomy of battling challenges and trials, finding his strength in weaknesses, living in his true self, and living life on his terms!

He was diagnosed with autism, ADHD, pediatric anxiety, and learning disabilities when he was eight years old.

This legal diagnosis came after numerous misdiagnosis.

Elementary School was a nightmare.

Those were dark days.

In the beginning, Colton took 32 pills a day.

32.

His weight fluxuated drastically.

His sleep schedule was all over the place.

His eating habits would swing like a pedulum from one side to the other.

It was exhausting for me, for his brothers, for his teachers, but especially for him.

Yet, Colton was always the sweetest.

The kindest.

The most innocent soul.

I was told for most of his life that it was highly unlikely, if not impossible, that he would live an independent life, graduate from high school, work a job, drive a car...

He was declared legally disabled a decade ago.

That declaration allowed resources for him, and for us, that were helpful in ensuring that Colton had everything he needed to succeed - whatever succeeding meant for him.

Today, Colton takes zero pills.

None.

Today, he works out daily.

And, this kid is a beast in the gym.

Today, he works two jobs.

And, he is a hard worker.

Tomorrow, he graduates.

With a high school diploma.

From high school.

He has come so far.

I credit his four brothers.

I credit teachers and aides and administrators who took the time and effort to see my child.

To work WITH his strengths.

To listen.

To tweak things for him so that he could succeed.

I credit neighbors, friends, and family members (blood and otherwise) who love him unconditionally.

I credit God with creating the most amazing young man and for giving me the honor of raising him and calling him mine.

Colton,

The places you've gone and will continue to go!!!!

I could not be more proud of every single thing you do every single day.

You are pure joy!!

I love you so big.