Profiles in Spirit
| William has an intractable seizure disorder and significant developmental delays. The typical Massachusetts arrangement for a disabled adult like Will includes placement in a group house overnight and weekends, and in a workshop during the weekdays. We knew he would not be able to handle the constantly changing staff at the house and workshop as well as the daily transport. With High Spirit and the Greenes we found the realization of our dreams for Will; the life-sharing home at High Spirit Community Farm has proven to be exactly what he needs. On good days when his seizures are fewer, he fully participates in family life and the gardening work. He is in charge of wheelbarrow trips to the compost, filling the birdfeeders, setting the table and doing the recycling, to name a few of his daily challenges and successes. On days when he has many seizures he remains in this same home with his High Spirit family’s support, joining in as best he can. Under this kind of flexible, loving, and respectful care he is both challenged and thriving. Every parent hopes his or her child will find a nurturing community life that encourages that child to be the best he or she can be. I have worried for so long that Will’s special needs might prevent his ever being part of such a community. High Spirit has provided it for Will. |
| Caroline contracted Herpes Encephalitis at the age of 5 months, leaving her with right hemi paresis, a seizure disorder, and totally non-verbal. At the age of 11 years she entered Camphill Special School Beaver Run where she grew and blossomed into a beautiful young woman. When we were first looking for a school for Caroline we looked for an environment that offered a full and nurturing life experience. Indeed, at Camphill Caroline found the daily life of family and friends and a learning environment that included working side by side with people who respected her and taught her to live life in a positive and fulfilling way despite her limitations. When Caroline was to graduate, we hoped she could find a place in a Camphill Community for adults. Despite our best efforts, she was not one of the fortunate few that found a placement. So, at age 21, and with great regret, we moved Caroline to institutional care. No longer given the positive encouragement to be her own person Caroline became somebody who required constant care. Stripped of her authentic autonomy she lost all enthusiasm and motivation to participate in daily activities. She became isolated, dependant, and spent much of her days passively listening to music.Because we knew life could be better for Caroline we continued searching and learned about a life-sharing community being formed in Great Barrington Massachusetts. The rest is history. Caroline is now a proud resident of High Spirit Community Farm and living the rich, joyful and fulfilling life that she so rightly deserves. Thank you High Spirit Community Farm and all of you that made this wonderful dream come true for us and especially for our daughter Caroline! |
