Meet Keats.
Keats is 11 years old, and he is truly one of the most loving boys you could ever meet. He greets the world with pure joy, big smiles, and the kind of laughter that makes everyone else smile too. When Keats is happy, you feel it. His happiness fills the room.
We started noticing differences in his development around age two. Over the years, he was diagnosed with profound autism, ADHD, pica, global developmental delays, and a speech-language disorder. Each diagnosis helped us understand part of who he is, but in our hearts, we always felt like something was still missing. In 2024, after genetic genome sequencing, we finally received the answer. Keats was diagnosed with a GRIA3-related neurodevelopmental disorder.
After so many years of wondering, knowing this brought clarity and a deep sense of peace.
Keats loves going to school and being with his family and the people who care for and support him. His favorite “toys” are plastic straws. He loves to stim with them, focusing on them in a way that brings him comfort and joy. He loves bouncing around like Tigger, full of energy and delight. He also loves playing PBS Kids songs over and over – and over again!
Life with GRIA3 comes with challenges, but it also reminds us every single day of what truly matters. Keats has taught us patience, resilience, and unconditional love in its purest form. He may have a rare diagnosis, but what defines him most is his sweet and gentle heart.
We are honored to share his story so that more families can find answers, community, and hope.
