Category: Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

Posted in Down syndrome, Down Syndrome Awareness, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

Blog #234~ Chris Nikic YOU are an Ironman!

Posted on by tjunnerstall

Blog #234~Chris Nikic, YOU are an Ironman!

Chris Nikic, a 21-year-old triathlete from Florida, has become the first person with Down syndrome to cross the finish line at an Ironman event. The Ironman is widely considered to be one of the most difficult single day sporting events in the world. It is a daunting race which includes swimming 2.4 miles, cycling 112 miles and running a 26.2-mile marathon. The 140.6 mile race must be completed in 17 hours. But Chris Nikic made all the time cutoffs, with time to spare–completing his competition in 16:46:09.

Chris Nikic YOU are an Ironman!

ABC News Feature: https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-pinellas/floridas-chris-nikic-becomes-first-ironman-with-down-syndrome

More media stories: https://chrisnikic.com/

So, how did Chris Nikic achieve such an amazing feat? Nikic has been training and competing in triathlons since he was 16 years old as well as the Special Olympics. It is all about hard work, dreaming big, setting goals and crushing them. His training sessions were around 6 hours daily. I am a 37 year fitness professional. I have worked with cyclists, marathon runners, triathletes, Ironman finishers and the 12 time Guinness world record holder for the plank and spinning (George Hood). Each of these athletes are disciplined and passionate. But there is something more–and that is the spirit that comes from the heart. I saw this in Chris Nikic who has the true heart of an Ironman. He adopted a mantra that is very simple but effective: “Give 1 % more each day”.

“If you start walking 100 steps and get 1% Better for 1 year, you will be walking 3,700 steps. If you start with 1,000 steps, in 1 year you will be walking a Marathon.” https://chrisnikic.com/

“I learned that I am willing to work hard and get one percent better every day, then ‘Anything is Possible,’” he replied when asked what it means to him to attempt an Ironman. “But I also learned that I can get my dream.” -Chris Nikic

History was made at this Ironman event. Barriers have been broken, making room for athletes with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities to set goals, dream big and be included. Nikic is a trailblazer, and with each transition from swim, bike to run he brought tears of joy to my eyes and thousands around the world. This all came from a boy, who like my son Nick, didn’t walk until he was 4 or eat solid foods until he was 5. Chris also had heart surgery at five months old and later four major ear operations at age 17.

To Chris, this race was more than just a finish line and celebration of victory,” said his father. “Ironman has served as his platform to become one step closer to his goal of living a life of inclusion, normalcy, and leadership. It’s about being an example to other kids and families that face similar barriers, proving no dream or goal is too high. If Chris can do an Ironman, he can do anything.” -Nik Nikic

Congratulations to Chris Nikic, YOU are an Ironman! Your mantra of doing 1% better going for your dreams, and crushing the Ironman is truly inspirational. That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa 🙂

Teresa Unnerstall is the mother of Nick, who is 26 years old and has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism (DS-ASD). She is the author of A New Course: A Mother’s Journey Navigating Down Syndrome and Autism (https://amzn.to/2W3Un6X) Follow on social media (Facebook-Instagram @Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism, Twitter (@tjunnerstall).

Posted in Autism, Down syndrome, Dual Diagnosis Down syndrome and autism, Fun Side of Nick, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

DS-ASD Winter Update

Posted on by tjunnerstall

DS-ASD Winter Update

Vail view 2019

My son Nick is a young adult, who has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism (DS-ASD). He attends an adult developmental day training program which provides a variety of structured activities. This week, I want to catch everyone up on what Nick’s been doing this winter.

Nick’s day program includes learning and enrichment activities. Clients enjoy learning new skills, vocational jobs, exercise, crafts, shopping, cooking, theme days/parties and community outings. The structured program is a necessity for individuals like Nick who have a secondary diagnosis of autism. He looks forward to going to this program daily.

Nick at his adult developmental day training program:

Nick bowling fall 2019     nick connect game

There have been many celebrations and fun excursions this winter for Nick. Here are a few of the highlights:

Christmas in Chicago was unseasonably warm this year, no jacket or shoes required. 🙂

Nick Christmas presents 2019     Nick Christmas outside 2019

We recently enjoyed a nice vacation in Vail. Nick loved the dog sledding with Mountain Mushers. He got to ride with his guide and friend, Cameron for the third year in a row. This year Nick road up the gondola for the first time and we did snow tubing. It’s always nice to go into Vail village, and this year his respite worker joined us in the fun and helped support Nick for a few days of our trip.

Vail vacation highlights:

Nick and Cameron Dog Sledding 2019   Dog Sledding 2019 Nick and Miss R Vail 2019   Nick and Dad Tubing 2019

Nick just celebrated his 26th birthday! He had a pizza party with cupcakes at his day program. We also had cake at home and a nice birthday lunch with family.

Nick’s birthday highlights:

Nick birthday at Keeler 2020   nick 26 birthday

nick birthday 2   Nick HBD

It’s been a fun and busy winter in Nick’s world. As most of you know, I have completed my memoir, “A New Course: A Mother’s Journey Navigating Down Syndrome and Autism”  which is forthcoming on May 5, 2020!  My next post will showcase the book and include pre-order details and how you can get your hands on a copy. I can’t wait to share this with all of you. I truly appreciate your support in my writing and following Nick’s world. 🙂

That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa 🙂

Follow Nick’s world to view more photos and videos on social media:

Facebook and Pinterest @Down Syndrome With a Slice of Autism

Instagram @https://www.instagram.com/nickdsautism/

Twitter @https://twitter.com/tjunnerstall

LOGO TRANSPARENCY (5)

 

Posted in Adult Day Programs for Special Needs, Autism, Down syndrome, Dual Diagnosis Down syndrome and autism, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

DS-ASD~Fall Update 2019

Posted on by tjunnerstall

DS-ASD~Fall Update 2019

Happy first day of fall 🙂! Here is an update on my son, Nick who is 25 years old and has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism (DS-ASD). My son attends an adult developmental training day program which he enjoys very much. The program has a nice variety of learning and enrichment activities incorporated throughout the day. Outside this program, Nick enjoys spending time with his personal support respite workers in the community going out to eat, movies, parks and other activities.

Some of the highlights of Nick’s day program are community trips, including shopping, visits to parks and local amusements along with going out to eat. In house, the curriculum includes learning centers, communication, functional living skills, recreation, music, movies, gardening, crafts, cooking, Friday fun days and other themes round out this program each week.

Here are a few pictures of Nick at his adult developmental training program:

nick sweeping keeler      Nick nature walk keeler     Nick visor keeler      Nick learning centers keeler

nick connect game

On 9/11 the clients at his program made thank you cards for local first responders. Here’s Nick giving cards to a police officer:

Nick and APD

Nick’s verbal skills are limited, due to having the additional diagnosis of autism and verbal apraxia of speech along with Down syndrome. He uses an Augmentative and Alternative (AAC) device and picture exchange system (PECS) to communicate his needs. There are two ways that I know that he likes going to his day program. Over the weekend, he packed his lunch and put it in his backpack, which he set by the front door. He also took the school icon out of his PECS book and puts it on a Velcro task strip and handed it to me. It’s nice to see how much he wants to go to this program. The routine and structure helps individuals with Down syndrome, autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities navigate their days successfully.

That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa 🙂

Follow Nick and see more pictures of him in action, along with other stories:

Facebook and Pinterest @Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism

Instagram @nickdsautism

Twitter @tjunnerstall

 

 

 

Posted in Autism, Down syndrome, Dual Diagnosis Down syndrome and autism, Fun Side of Nick, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

DS-ASD~ Summer Vacation Highlights

Posted on by tjunnerstall

DS-ASD~ Summer Vacation Highlights

OBX flags 2019

We are back after a two week vacation from Virginia and the Outer Banks, NC. It was so relaxing to be off the grid and enjoy time with family. My son Nick is 25 years old and has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism (DS-ASD). As a family, we have always made a commitment to travel with our son. It can be challenging for a child with special needs to navigate airports, hotels and unfamiliar venues. But there are things you can put in place to make vacations go smoother…..

In my last blog entry you can access my top 7 vacation travel tips for families: https://nickspecialneeds.com/2019/06/17/ds-asd7-vacation-tips-for-special-needs-families/ 

Here are some of the highlights from our summer vacation in Virginia and the Outer Banks (OBX):

In Virginia, we enjoyed the wonderful hospitality of Nick’s Aunt Ali and Uncle Ron with beautiful views, kayaking on the James River, great food and relaxing in the peaceful country…..

 

Highlights from the Outer Banks, in Duck, OBX:

At OBX we enjoyed beach and pool time, great company, delicious meals and a nice birthday celebration dinner on the sound side of OBX. Nick did well tolerating the sandy beaches this year, and spent more time than ever with us as a family!  We put Nick in tennis shoes to make his way out on the hot sand, with a texture that tends to bother him from a sensory standpoint. He did well hanging out both under the umbrella and out at the water’s edge……….

Nick and Dad OBX beach 2019   Nick and Anna OBX 2019

Dinner on the sound side of OBX at Aqua Restaurant and Spa, including Nick with his Dad & Mom, Uncle Ron & Aunt Ali, Cousins Anna & Sam and Nick’s brother and girlfriend Hank & Kristin…..

Aqua Restaurant and Spa features excellent food, wine, spa treatments and sunsets. Thank you both- to my son Hank for treating me to a pedicure overlooking the sound, and to Ali for the relaxing (and much needed) Swedish massage. As a mother of a child with special needs, it’s crucial to take time for some TLC and pamper yourself. Moving forward, I’m going to make it a priority to do this more than once a year on my birthday. It is good for the soul! 🙂

Sunrise at Duck, OBX….

OBX sunrise 2019

We are very grateful and blessed to have the opportunity to spend vacation each summer with Ali and Ron hosting in Virginia and OBX. Anna, thank you for cooking and introducing us to some wonderful & tasty vegan dishes. The familiar venues help Nick feel secure in his surroundings. This predictability helps him to be less anxious on vacations and makes for a more relaxing experience for all of us.

That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa 🙂

To see more pictures of the trip and Nick click below to follow on social media:

Instagram– https://www.instagram.com/nickdsautism/

Twitter– https://twitter.com/tjunnerstall

Facebook Page and Pinterest- Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Autism, Dual Diagnosis Down syndrome and autism, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

DS-ASD~7 Vacation Tips for Special Needs Families

Posted on by tjunnerstall

DS-ASD~7 Vacation Tips for Special Needs Families

My son, Nick is 25 years old and has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism (DS-ASD). We’ve had our share of family vacations traveling across the country and overseas.  It’s not always easy and breezy, but with some planning and preparation, your vacation can be less stressful and fun for everyone.

7 Vacation Tips for Special Needs Families:

1. Prepare social stories and visual schedules including the mode of travel, and what is expected from your child. Review the vacation destination venue online with your child. This will give them an idea of where they will be going, and what they will be doing. Print pictures of the vacation venue to create a daily activity schedule. Visuals will provide a blueprint for your child to understand what will be happening, this will lessen their anxiety.

2. When booking accommodations, look for a comfortable and quiet retreat for your family. This may mean a separate living area from the rest of your family or friends in some cases.

3. Bring medications, snacks, comfort items and highly preferred toys/sensory objects in your carry on bag. In addition, it’s wise to pack an extra set of clothes for your child.

4. Plan short, flexible and open-ended adventures on your vacation. Build in time for breaks as needed.

5. Work in at least a few activities that your child will love.

6. Eating familiar foods will help your child feel more at home in a strange place. Check restaurant menus online beforehand, especially in the case of any food allergies or dietary restrictions. Don’t underestimate the importance of this. Once on vacation, we forgot to buy Ranch dressing, this lead to my son having a meltdown.

7. Don’t beat yourself up if things don’t go as planned. As much as you can, try to watch for the triggers that may cause your child to have a meltdown. See what you can do to cut these off at the pass before things escalate.

Vacations while fun, can be challenging for a child with special needs. Prepare in advance with comfort items, visuals, and look for possible triggers that may cause anxiety and discomfort for your child. Build in as much predictability as possible. Keep a relaxed and flexible attitude when approaching daily activities. It’s okay to cut things short, if it gets to be too much. Being prepared, planning ahead and staying flexible will help families have a smooth and enjoyable vacation this summer.

That’s what is in my noggin this week. 🙂

~Teresa

Follow Nick:

Instagram @nickdsautism

Facebook and Pinterest @Down Syndrome With a  Slice of Autism

Twitter @tjunnerstall

 

 

Posted in Autism, Down syndrome, Dual Diagnosis Down syndrome and autism, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs, Resources for Special Needs

Special Needs Summer Program Ideas

Posted on by tjunnerstall

Special Needs Summer Program Ideas

This week, I’ve provided a list of some summer program ideas and links for children with special needs. My son, Nick is 25 years old and has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism (DS-ASD). Over the years he has participated in a variety of programs.  Here is a blog I wrote a couple of years ago, highlighting some great programs for individuals with special needs:

Click here to view:
https://nickspecialneeds.com/2017/06/12/blog-176-special-needs-summer-recreation-programs/

Honesty, I was uncertain about attempting some of the programs, given Nick’s dual diagnosis of DS-ASD. It’s important to at least try new things and keep expanding your child’s horizons. As the saying goes, “you never know, until you try it”. That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa 🙂

Follow Nick:

Facebook and Pinterest @Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism

Instagram @nickdsautism

Twitter @tjunnerstall

 

 

Posted in Adult Day Programs for Special Needs, Autism, Behavior/ ABA, Down syndrome, Dual Diagnosis Down syndrome and autism, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

Blog #229~DS-ASD Winter Update

Posted on by tjunnerstall

Blog #229~DS-ASD Winter Update

Chicago winter 2019

This winter weather has been bitter and harsh, here in Chicago.  Fortunately, we missed the plummeting temperatures last week, while vacationing in Vail, Colorado.  My son, Nick is 24 years old and has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism (DS-ASD).  Here’s an update on what Nick’s been up to this winter and the highlights of our trip to Vail.

The weather in Vail was mild, with temperatures in the 35-40 degree range and plenty of sunshine.  There is something to be said about sunlight and how it can elevate your mood.  The clear blue skies, warm sun, fresh air, and beautiful mountain views, can do wonders for the soul.

Vail sunset 2019

Nick enjoyed his time with our friends in Vail.  The village is always a fun place to visit.  Here’s Nick at lunch and with his Dad, Al :)…..

 

The highlight of the week, for Nick was dog sledding.  This is the second year we’ve done this with Mountain Mushers, who offer the best dog sledding rides in the Vail Valley.  Nick was happy to see his buddy, Cameron who was our dog sled musher last year.  He always gets such a kick seeing all the happy dogs, who bark with excitement as the sleds loaded up.

All bundled up in the sled and ready to go, and guess what, he actually kept his hat and gloves on this time.  Yay Nick! 🙂

 

The scenic trail was packed with alot more snow this year, making the ride faster. His favorite part is when the sled goes over the bumps and flies down the hills. Nick is a thrill seeker, who always signs “more” when a roller coaster ride is over.  He also loves the Disney movie Snow Dogs, so this was a perfect blend of his favorite things.  Towards the end of the ride, his Dad got to try his hand at mushing.  Check out the Facebook, Instagram and Twitter links below to see videos of them dog sledding in action all this week. 🙂 

Today it’s a balmy 50 degrees here in Chicago, and Nick has returned to his adult developmental training day program.  It’s hard to believe the turn around in temperatures……

Chicago temp difference

As I’ve mentioned in previous blog posts, Nick attends a day program that he truly enjoys.  The adult developmental training program curriculum includes functional and academic work activities, crafts, exercise, cooking, entertainment, and community outings.  The staff reports that Nick has so much potential and does awesome at the learning centers and work choices.  They have a lot of fun, especially over the holidays. Activities included a big Christmas lunch, wearing ugly sweaters, listening to a local high school choir and making wreaths, gingerbread houses and pillows.

Here’ s a no sew pillow that Nick made…..

nick pillow

If you look closely in the picture above, you might notice a stop icon on the dishwasher.  There are many of these stop signs on the start buttons around our house.  Individuals with a diagnosis of autism can benefit from the use of icons, to better guide their days.  Nick has a thing for pushing buttons and fire alarms.  His behavior support plan (BSP) addresses the fire alarm pulling.  Twice each day, the staff at his day program take him on a walk down the hallways.  They encourage and cue him to “keep walking” with “hands to self”.  Before these walks, the staff reads his social story that contains pictures of how to  navigate these hall walks.  Upon successful completion, Nick earns a reward.

Click on this link to learn more about the BSP and his social story: https://nickspecialneeds.com/tag/social-stories/

That wraps up Nick’s world and what he’s been up to this winter.  Navigating a dual diagnosis of  DS-ASD has it’s good and bad days.  Fortunately, the good days now outweigh the bad.  I think it’s both maturity on Nick’s part, along with the wisdom and understanding gained from being his parent.  Big guy has a milestone birthday coming up, I look forward to sharing more with you next Monday!  What is one thing that Nick has taught you over the past 24+ years?  I’d love to hear your feedback. 🙂

That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa 

Follow Nick on Social Media to see more pics and videos:

Nick head shot in vail

Facebook and Pinterest @Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism

Instagram #nickdsautism and more on dog sledding #mountainmushers

Twitter @tjunnerstall

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down syndrome, Dual Diagnosis Down syndrome and autism, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

Blog #225~10 Autism Holiday Stress Tips

Posted on by tjunnerstall

Blog #225~10 Autism Holiday Stress Tips

Let’s face it, holidays are stressful. Navigating the Christmas season with a child who has autism is even more demanding on families.  My son, Nick is 24 years old and has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism (DS-ASD). Individuals with autism rely on structure and predictability in their daily routines. When the holiday season rolls around it can provoke anxiety and lead to meltdowns. It is important to respect these feelings of uncertainty and provide as much predictability as possible.

Here are 10 ways to ease holiday stress and manage the upcoming weeks of festivities.

Keep Calm Christmas

10 Autism Holiday Stress Tips:

1.Start early, get as much done ahead of time with holiday preparations. Rushing around trying to get things done last minute can provoke anxiety.

2. Pare down where you can, whether it’s decorations, presents, or parties. It’s okay to say no or bow out early.  Flexibility is key!

3. Don’t rush, allow enough time to get from point A to point B. Give more notice when it is time to transition.

4. When possible, try to stick to daily routines.

5. Avoid surprises, prepare your child ahead of time. Make social stories using visuals or written words (depending on your child’s level of comprehension). This will act as a script for your child to follow. If they see what’s expected, they can understand the plan and this will lessen anxiety levels.

IMG_3865  visuals for church

6. Provide pictures of family members and friends that you don’t see that often prior to visiting them. Notify family and friends of sensitivities and sensory behaviors your child may exhibit. Nick makes vocal stim sounds and taps objects which helps him to self-regulate. Some individuals with autism do not like hugs or fail to make eye contact. Family members might engage instead with a special handshake, high- five or Nick’s favorite, the elbow bump 🙂

Nick and jenna elbow bump

visuals visit gma gpa

7. When traveling or lodging outside your home, pack comfort items like toys, music, movies, electronic devices, weighted blankets/vests, snacks and comfort foods. Have these readily available.

8. Give your child opportunities to help out and reward with praise and your attention. Heavy work activities provide sensory input that is calming. Here are a few Nick enjoys…..

9. Know your child’s limits. There is so much sensory overload this time of year with excessive crowds, noises, lights and cramming too much into a day. This can be very overwhelming. So, watch for signs of distress (Nick will pinch his own cheeks, bite on his medical ID bracelet, yell and say I’m mad). It is essential to recognize these signs and cut it off at the pass, before behaviors escalate. Redirect with a break icon, and seek out a quiet spot. It may be necessary bailout here before behaviors escalate, to avoid a meltdown.

Break Icon

10. Allow for down time, to kick your feet up and relax. Weighted blankets are great for deep pressure that can help to calm the sensory system. I recently found out these blankets are available at Target.  Hmmmmm……that sounds like a good excuse to go to Target. 🙂

Disruption in routines, schedules, and stimulating environments make for a holiday filled with fraught for individuals with autism. But preparing your child with as much structure as possible using visuals and having a bailout plan, will help keep the stress levels down. I hope that your holiday season is merry and bright.  How do you to keep calm this time of year? Please share your secrets to surviving the holidays in the comments!

That’s what is in my noggin this week. 🙂

~Teresa 

Follow Nick:

017

Facebook and Pinterest @Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism

Instagram #nickdsautism

Twitter @tjunnerstall

Posted in Autism, Down syndrome, Dual Diagnosis Down syndrome and autism, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

Blog #211~50 Years of Special Olympics

Posted on by tjunnerstall

Blog #211~50 Years of Special Olympics

Special Olympics 50 years

“Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” 

This is the motto of the Special Olympics, encouraging athletes to find the courage to give it all you got.

“The torch was first lit on July 2, 1968 when Eunice Kennedy Shriver ushered in a new era for people with intellectual disabilities, when — with 1,000 athletes from three countries — she opened the very first Special Olympics International Games at Soldier Field in Chicago.”

Two weeks ago, the torch returned here to Soldier Field here in Chicago, where it all started.  Fifty years later, the games have become a global movement reaching more than 5 million athletes.  Sport events include track and field, basketball, bocce, cycling, figure skating, soccer, power lifting, gymnastics, judo, tennis, swimming, skiing and bowling to name a few.

“Special Olympics is an international organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition.”

My son Nick has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism.  Over the years, he has participated in Special Olympics competing in track and field, bocce and bowling.  The spirit, camaraderie and dedication of volunteers made the experience very rewarding for Nick and our family.  Watching the determined athletes is awe-inspiring.

Nick competing in the 50 yard dash at North Central College….. 

Nick backside special olympics

Nick special olympics podium

Nick showing off his gold medal earned at bowling…..

Nick special olympics bowling

Nick taking a bow at the top of the podium as they played the olympic theme song.  He won the State Special Olympics gold medal for the softball throw competing in down state Illinois…..

Nick Special Olympics

Nick competing in Bocce with his volunteer peer partner, Bobby.  Incidentally, Bobby (who is Nick’s brother’s best friend), has since gone on to become a Special Education Teacher in the north suburbs of Chicago…..

Nick special olympics bocce     nick special olympics bocce two

As my son entered high school, we had to put Special Olympics on the shelf.  Having a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism made it difficult for Nick to participate without having a 1:1 aide at all times. This just wasn’t feasible.  As a parent, you can only do so much for your child.  I made the decision to put speech and occupational therapy first, rather than Special Olympics practice events, after school.  However, there were other inclusion opportunities for him in high school, which included Peer Partners and community trips with his respite workers.  Nick also participated in a wide range of P.E. programs with peer volunteers to assist and encourage him in high school.

Special Olympics has impacted the lives of athletes and volunteers for 5 decades.  Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s vision has grown from a flicker of the first torch flame, to an international movement.  “Special Olympics is dedicated to use the power and joy of sports to impact inclusion and respect – one athlete, one volunteer, one doctor, one teacher at a time.”  Congratulations to Special Olympics for 50 years of making a difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities!

eunice_dennedy

That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa 🙂

Follow Nick:

Facebook and Pinterest @Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism

Instagram #tjunnerstall

Twitter @tjunnerstall

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Autism, Down syndrome, Dual Diagnosis Down syndrome and autism, Fun Side of Nick, Recreation/Leisure and Special Needs

DS-ASD Nick’s Summer Update 2018

Posted on by tjunnerstall

DS-ASD Nick’s Summer Update 2018

We have a lot to share after a three-week blog break.  Nick’ been flying the friendly skies and having a blast on vacation!  My son Nick is 24 years old and has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism.  This week, find out what Nick’s been up to this summer.

Vacation started with a family reunion in Branson Missouri.  I haven’t flown solo with Nick in quite a few years, so I was feeling a little anxious.  I checked the flight status on my phone, while in the taxi heading to the airport. My jaw dropped, our flight got canceled due to aircraft maintenance.  This was the last thing I needed.  We were directed to United Airlines Additional Services line.  The gentlemen in front of me, smiled at me and Nick, saying “This is the line you don’t want to be in.”  I was nervous and saying prayers as we waited for nearly 30 minutes…….

Nick airport additional services

Fortunately, we got re-booked on another flight that was leaving at the same time.  Nick and I navigated the corridors  of O’Hare as we have done multitudes of times as a family.  We made it to the gate with 10 minutes to spare.  There was no time for a quick bite to eat, as I had alloted in my timetable.  So, I had to buy the most expensive bag of Cheez-Its to make do.

Airport Cheez-Its= Cha-ching $5.00  I should have taken my own advice from Blog #208~ https://nickspecialneeds.com/2018/06/11/blog-208vacation-tips-for-parents-of-a-child-with-special-needs/and packed some snacks.

cheezits

The family reunion was a great time and opportunity to catch up with everyone.  My mom’s side of the family has a reunion every two years.  This year was hosted by Uncle Jackie and Aunt Karen with over 100 members attending.  The resort and accommodations were wonderful.  Best of all the Overbey family give the warmest hugs.  Nick had a great time and got a couple of special gifts from his aunt and uncle.

Autism awareness bear from Aunt Mary…

NIck Autism Bear

Fire alarms from Uncle Robert…

Nick fire alarm at branson

A few weeks later, we made our annual trip to Virginia and the Outer Banks in North Carolina.  Nick’s uncle and aunt have property in both places.  Here are the highlights from VA and OBX….

Vacation in VA started out in Nick’s happy place….

nick pizza in va

The views in Virginia are breathtaking.  This property sits overlooking the James River. Uncle Ron was a gracious host on our visit here.  Time spent here is about unplugging, relaxing and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere…

VA view

Nick swing VA 2018

We did a few tours while in Virginia.  One was Blenheim Vineyards, established in 2000 by owner, singer and artist Dave Matthews.  The venue is laid back, with a deck overlooking the vineyards with a nice wine tasting offered.  On another day, we toured the Virginia Distillery.

VA whiskey

Uncle Ron and Nick’s Dad, Al sampling whiskey….

whiskey al and ron

Nick is not so much of a fan 🙂

Nick whiskey

Our second part of the trip was in the Outer Banks in North Carolina, also known as OBX.  Here are some of the highlights:

When you see this sign, it’s time to exhale, let go of all your worries and chill….

OBX signs 2018

Currituck Lighthouse…..

Curriteck Lighthouse

Floating on the lazy river pool…

Nick lazy river in obx

Nick standing guard at the crow’s nest…..

Nick ruling crows nest

Nick always manages to find the vacuum at Uncle Ron and Aunt Ali’s beach house.  He’s practicing his independent living and job skills……

 

For the first time in many years of coming to OBX, Nick wanted to spend a lot more time on the beach.  He’s never been a fan of the sand, however this year he put on his socks and shoes and came out almost everyday.  Wearing tennis shoes and socks, along with sitting in the higher beach chair, helped him cope better with the sensory issues associated with sand!

View of Duck, OBX beach…..

obx view 2018

Nick’s Dad and Brother……

Al and Hank obx 2018

Nick and his brother Hank, taking in the sunset at OBX….

Hank obx 2018    nick and hank obx 2018

Nick flirting with his brother’s girlfriend, Kristin on the crow’s nest 🙂

Nick and Kristin OBX

Cheers from me and Kristin, beach hair, don’t care….

k and me obx

The vibe in the Outer Banks is calm, family oriented and chill on the beach.  You take in the ocean breeze and the sound of the waves hitting the sandy shores and feel the tension melt from your body.  Turn the knob to Bob, FM 93.7 radio and sip on a cool beverage, leaving your worries behind.  Nick feels very comfortable here.  We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to vacation here each year, at Ron and Ali’s beach home.  This year was not the same, without Ron, Ali, Sam and Anna.  We send our love and best wishes to the family and wish Ali a speedy recovery.  Cheers to making more memories with EVERYONE together, sharing laughs and lives at VA and OBX, next summer.

Beach Fixes Everything

It’s been a great summer for Nick and our family, along with extended family.  Vacations are great to unplug, relax and restore the body and soul.  We hope that you get a chance to enjoy a nice vacation.  What’s everyone doing this summer?

That’s what is in my noggin this week. 🙂 

~Teresa

For more pictures of Nick follow on social media:

Facebook and Pinterest @Down Syndrome With A Slice of Autism

Instagram @nickdsautism

Twitter @tjunnerstall