Not So Great Having Lack of Body Control

Photo by Aubrey Odom on Unsplash

STORY OF MY LIFE PT. 23 BY JAKE MCCLINTICK 7/15/19

Really not understand, stupid to have lack good body control. Real mad because good body control is only thing have to get my independence.

My stupid life is stuck, my mom has to do most everything to care after me.  Most really hate myself, should be able to make myself get better at helping with things. Most hard, I not sure how to do better, only makes no sense.

Most very stupid life having autism. Really stupid life in body stuck in autism. Not sure most important as other people.

Jake McClintick is now 23 years old and has been learning to communicate using a letterboard since age 18. Learning the process of using a letterboard through the Rapid Prompting Method (RPM) was a gradual process that took several years. We are still working on expanding RPM and Jake’s confidence/skills beyond our “work sessions.” 

Regardless, this low-tech alternative communication system has been an answered prayer for us both. At the age of 22 he began expressing his very personal thoughts and feelings more fluently with me (his mom), and it was his idea to begin writing “The Story of My Life” one day.  This was his 23rd entry to that story. He is diagnosed with severe autism as well as intermittent explosive disorder.

He has given me permission to share his story and our conversations. He continually expresses his desire to “find purpose” to his life…I hope his willingness to share will help others learn about this misunderstood condition known as “autism” that has so much to teach us all.