[Ansteorra] You are making a difference

[Alexandra Shahan]

I posted this to my Facebook, but wanted to cast the net a bit wider. 
My oldest son, Ryan, goes to a school for kids with learning disabilities. Needless to say, he struggles with many things. However, last Friday I actualy enjoyed attending the annual Parent/Teacher conferences. 
His seven teachers all had the same question: where is Ryan and what have you done to him?
 To a teacher they commented that his attitude in and out of class is markedly positive, his maturity level among his peers has advanced  notably (he tends to run about 18 months behind socially, academically and physically), his grades are improving steadily as he is applying himself to tasks more independently, and he is more engaging and outgoing in class. In PE he has gone from the last one out of the locker room and benchwarmer, to first one on the court and trying hard (thanks to the suggestion that he needs to learn basketball to work on his stances and coordination for sword practice). However, in class he needs to ask more questions of teachers to be sure he understands assignments, but that can be worked on. 
My answer to his teachers is, basically, I let my friends beat my child with sticks!  I told each of them about the SCA and Youth Chivalric fighting, and sent them all my Facebook Pictures. We are definitely planning a demo at his school for mid May. Evidence in pictures here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=54880&id=1317761735&l=3f543e2408
The last few years have been a constant struggle for Ryan, not just the move and then the divorce, but all the orthodontal surgeries and appliances, and the difficulties in school. I think we have found the carrot and reached a major turning point. 
Many, many thanks to all those we have encountered since Warlord last year that have encouraged and helped Ryan in so many ways. Especially Eric Holtgrefe (Erich von Ossenbrugge) who took Ryan on as a novice to heavy fighting. 
Again, thank you all and please keep up the encouragement! I just wanted you all to know that you are making a difference in and out of the SCA. 
sincerely, 
Alexandra McNeill NottClaire