An Athlete's Story
Adam Sanders Story
Adam is a 6 year old boy that has autism. Adam joined Buddy Ball in November 2007. Buddy Ball has done so much for him it is amazing. It has helped him become more social and improved his self-esteem. He has learned to catch, throw, bounce, and shoot a basketball. He has also learned how to bowl and tolerate crowds and a party atmosphere, something he could not do until he joined Buddy Ball. He wants to be a part of a group now, something he had no interest in before Buddy Ball. It has helped him learn to use his muscles and improve his motor skills. He has made friends and enjoys being included in things.
He loves seeing Ms. Margaret and Hannah, his buddy. It has helped him become more self aware of things like stimming, he tries real hard not to stim at buddy ball, which is a really good thing for a child with autism. He loves getting out and interacting with other kids and the trophies he gets at the end of each sporting event are his prize possessions! Buddy Ball has played a very big part in his progress, and I truly believe played an even bigger part in bringing him out of the autism "fog" he was in. He is very proud of himself and has no trouble telling anyone that will listen to him that he plays Buddy Ball.
Buddy Ball has not only improved Adam in many different ways, it has changed his quality of life in a very positive way. Thanks so much for having this wonderful program for our kids!
Trudy Sanders
