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Living in the Present and Finding Joy – Meet Jack
Alison’s wishes for her son, Jack, are identical to many parents: to live a life filled with joy and without worries. He would also be surrounded by people who encourage his growth while doing the things he loves the most.
From Struggle to Strength; An Unbroken Spirit
At age two Jack wasn’t talking much and as a teacher and mother, Alison, had reason for concern so they began having appointments with the pediatrician. Years later in, 2003, Jack was diagnosed with a brain cancer called medulloblastoma. A brain surgery was performed to remove 90% of the tumor and the remaining 10% had to be treated through radiation. The procedures did save him but left him with significant intellectual disabilities.
At a young age, Jack had already been through so much. Alison was determined to make sure Jack’s younger years were filled with doing things that brought him joy like going to Trader Joe’s. They made good friends there and the staff even let Jack pack groceries. He was once a Trader Joe’s boy for Halloween.
In 2021, Jack’s strength was tested again. He had a brain bleed. The doctor said that the radiation procedure Jack received as a child left him with blood vessels in his vascular system like that of a 70-year-old man which can’t be changed. Due to this, the doctor gave the life-altering news that Jack may have around 10 years to live. Despite this shattering diagnosis, Jack’s support system continues to help him live his best life possible by doing things that bring a smile to his face.
“He really is an earth angel in my opinion. Many people who know Jack are inspired by his story and what a pure soul he has. He generally smiles all the time! Jack does not know to worry about his future, which is definitely a blessing.” -Alison
What comes next
All through Alison supporting Jack in living a fulfilling life while attending high school, she had many sleepless nights wondering what would happen after he completed postsecondary school. “What comes next”, is a question Alison asked herself and one that so many parents in her position do.
Alison expressed, “We’ve just heard so many bad stories about some programs and also saw that many were shut down.”
A way to maintain joy in Jack’s life while Alison was at work would be to have him a part of a program where he could thrive with compassionate staff while doing meaningful work and making friendships.
That’s what I need
Alison first learned about LSA through Wishbook in the Mercury News. Right after reading the article, Alison got in contact with LSA’s CITP Coordinator.
“The CITP Coordinator was so amazing and was just really dedicated to helping us on the journey. One day in December we met a few of the groups with the coordinator at the mall and I just got a really good feeling for it. The fact that it’s been around so long I really like. I like Dana’s story. It just seemed like a great place.” -Alison
Jack’s “Job”
Jack has been with LSA’s Community Integration Training Program (CITP) for over a year. He enjoys the community outings, volunteer opportunities, and being around his peers. He’s eager to please and often asks Alison how the coordinator said he did that day. Allison mentions another bonus is the free transportation which has been helpful for her since she works full time.
“Jack insists CITP be called work and we even have a saying of that on the fridge. He really loves LSA. He enjoys going. It’s a blessing.” -Alison
A Life that Brings Joy
The goal of Jack’s family is to make a happy life for him.
“When I go to sleep every night I will ask, “What has brought Jack joy?”. – Alison
Alison believes it’s not Jack’s time and he’s here to teach more to people. Staff and participants of CITP could attest to this. Staff have described Jack as curious, a self-starter, hands-on, and very excited to help. He enjoys greeting people and being around his peers. Since starting CITP, Jack has developed close bonds with certain peers and they look out for Jack. In return, Jack reminds everyone to embrace life and find joy in every day.
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