Hi, my name is Tysha St. Jules.

I am the Cottage supervisor at Queen Louise Home for Children.

I serve at Queen Louise Home because I love children, and I also want to give back to my community. My work is so rewarding, and this past week, in particular, was terrific for my team and me. 

 

I am excited to tell you about one of our children, who we will call Jason. In addition to the challenges that brought him to Queen Louise Home, Jason is severely autistic and is non-verbal. He is a teenager of little words but big gestures and facial expressions.

 

When he gets excited about an activity, he will come skipping towards you, reach for your hand, and guide you to where he needs you to be. And sometimes, if he makes a mess, he gently reaches for your hand with a sad face and leads you to where he needs help.  Every day we see him grow is kind of a big deal, and I absolutely love  interacting with him.

 

We celebrated Jason’s graduation from high school last week — and I can tell you, we made a big deal out of it. We covered the van with balloons and decked him in his cap and gown, and drove him everywhere we knew would help him feel special. As I see him with his diploma now, it reminds me of my most memorable experience with him back in the summer of 2018.

Jason was attending an extended school year program, and every morning, he rushed to get ready for school and get on the school bus. His special education teacher had planned a field trip, which gave me a chance to visit his classroom to drop off his permission slip. As I stepped in, I saw Jason working at his computer. When he looked up and saw me, he began to rock and laugh out loud happily.

Jason took my hand, walked me around his classroom, and pointed out all his posted work on the wall or tables. He was so proud of his schoolwork! If I moved off too quickly from one wall to the next without giving him praise, he would block my movement until I celebrated with him. As soon as he got that praise, oh boy! He would leap in the air with excitement! I shared with my team all that he showed me that day, and we made even greater efforts to help him develop his skills and interests and independent living skills.

As we celebrate another significant milestone in his life, I pray that God continues to keep him happy and surrounded by loving and compassionate people.

People who are just like you.

 

During our Week of Giving, I want you to imagine Jason’s enthusiasm — him skipping around to show you his diploma and giving you a high-five. Because we could not have raised him without you.

 

Jason is the reason we work day and night to make Queen Louise Home a healthy home. He and all the other children in our care are where they are today because of the love we give to them - together with you. Your support and prayers give us the energy and resources we need. Thank you from my heart for all you do.

 

I hope you can share our story with your family and friends for our Week of Giving.