Meet the Brooks Family

Many parents would find receiving a diagnosis of autism for their 19-year-old child overwhelming, as they worry about their child's future, particularly during the transition into adulthood. However, when Joya Brooks learned of her daughter BeLov'ed's diagnosis, she felt ready and empowered because she knew precisely where to turn - the same place that had supported her son Courageous since he was diagnosed with autism as a young child.

Courageous's journey began with less confidence because the Brooks family was uncertain about what options were available after learning of their son's diagnosis. They worried about his safety in public and his success in school without knowing what support was available. Eventually, they found Easterseals through a friend's recommendation.

Courageous began services on Valentine's Day in the Parent Training program, a moment Joya recalls as changing "the entire trajectory of [her] life and [her] child's life." He was fully engaged in the program, and the family could finally understand why their son responded to life the way he did. As they learned a new language to communicate with Courageous, everyone involved became more confident. They were no longer afraid for his safety in public, and the lessons they learned were taken to school. Through on-site school observations and IEP meetings, an Easterseals staff member guided the school and family through struggles and transitions in his education.

Easterseals has been invaluable to the Brooks family, helping them feel empowered to make a place for themselves and their children in their community. When BeLov'ed received her diagnosis at 19, Joya was confident that she had the tools and support she needed from Easterseals. BeLov'ed began receiving services from Easterseals and has been working in a job she loves for over a year through their Employment Program.

Joya advises other families in similar situations. 

Grab the diagnosis and make a beeline to Easterseals Midwest so they can engage in the community. These are the people that will put a light at the end of the dark tunnel you're staring into. They gave us light and hope.