Meet Paul – Age 11
GRIA4
Our sweet little guy came into our lives at three and a half years old through adoption. We were foster parents at the time when our agency called asking if we would consider adopting a little boy with autism — and about a week later we met Paul (and his three siblings!).
Sparing the details, it took four years before we had an accurate diagnosis. After extensive testing, we learned that Paul has GRIA4, a rare genetic condition that affects his development and overall functioning.
Because of Paul — and years of experience working within the disability community — our family’s path has grown in a new direction. What began as navigating services, therapies, and daily life as parents evolved into full-time work supporting families affected by disability. Today, we help organizations, churches, and even individuals better include those with disabilities, and we come alongside families to offer respite and practical, tangible support.
Paul is a happy camper most of the time, and his play reflects that of an 18-month-old. His favorite toys make noise, and he loves balls and textured toys, but his favorite toy in the world is stacking buckets, and we never leave home without them. Paul has pica and always needs something safe available to chew on. He is in diapers and self-feeds with his hands. He has strong trunk support (sits well independently) but has an unsteady gait and needs assistance walking safely. We are thankful to now have Paul in an amazing school program with some of the best teachers, paras, and therapists you could ever hope to have. Paul loves being outside, loves swimming (floating in a life jacket), and especially enjoys bath time. He shares life with seven siblings who love him fiercely and consider him one of their very best friends.
Caring for Paul brings a unique set of daily challenges, but our love for him — and our delight in who he is — far outweighs the hard parts. We’ve learned to problem-solve creatively so Paul can join in adventures while staying safe. My number one goal for Paul is simple: that he is happy and knows he is deeply loved. Everything else is a bonus.
