Community Spotlight: Noah Hesson
During World Autism Month we would like to highlight some members of the autism community and share their stories. Dana Hesson of Woodstock, Georgia, is the mother of nine-year-old Noah Hesson. Noah was diagnosed with autism at age four. Initially, Hesson was upset for her son, until she saw how empowering the diagnosis could be. She noted that they would be, “able to develop a plan to help him cope and have the best life possible.” Noah’s mom also recalls thinking this would have a large impact on their lives, but it was better than anticipated.
She shared how wonderful her son Noah is as he is always happy and looking for new adventures to be had with his parents. She said he loves going on the plans to get to their destination. In the past, he has gone to Disneyland, the beach, and this past February Panama City, Panama. When asked about future adventures, his mother shared that they have a variety planned. Some of which include a trip to a water park in Orlando, celebrating his birthday at Disney for a week, and they hope to take him on his first cruise next year.
Hesson told us that he recently attended his first camp over their spring break and that Noah absolutely loved attending. Noah also participates in a variety of activities, such as drumming and soon-to-be swimming for the Special Olympics. With her son in mind, Hesson describes autism as, “beautiful, special, and unique!”
Noah has a large capacity to love, learn, and go on adventures. While he struggles with math and writing, Noah’s mom notes that he loves to read and is always practicing his vocabulary words. She once feared Noah would never talk, but he now happily talks on a variety of topics, specifically paper towel dispensers and vacuum cleaners. From her son, Hesson says she has learned that “a positive attitude, (which he ALWAYS has) can work miracles.”
Hesson recalls how hard Noah has worked to get to this point as he priorly had only used one or two words or would physically lead his parents to what he needed. Noah had gone through many forms of therapies to improve his skills and his mom has seen the progress firsthand. Hesson mentioned that things will change, “Your child will grow and change. Believe in them, support them, and if something is not working or meeting your child's needs, try something new. Most of all, enjoy your child!”
Noah Hesson and his mother Dana Hesson on their flight to Panama City, Panama.