Matthew is a 9-year-old boy who enjoys playing ball and doing things other children his age like. Matthew also has autism. He gets very scared and has a fight-or-flight response when exposed to normal things we hear and experience every day, like a dishes clanging or a dog barking.
Matthew had already been hospitalized three times in 2011 when his mother, Trish, finally decided one day that enough was enough. She contacted V-LINC to see if there was anything we could do to help Matthew live a more normal life.
Since then, a volunteer team of seniors from CCBC Essex has diligently been working hard to transform Matthew’s bedroom and basement into “safe places” he can go whenever he feels overwhelmed.
An Early Christmas Present
In December 2011, Matthew's project finally came to a close. Some of the new, sensory-friendly additions to his rooms include a canopy bed with a blue curtain, his favorite color; protected windows that prevent him from harming himself in a fit, but allow access at other times; and a radio built into the basement wall that plays his favorite stations. The entire family couldn't be happier.
"Matthew absolutely loves his bed and the quiet room!!" Trish wrote to instructor Laura LeMire. "I have never seen him so excited :) Your students did an excellent job and we are so grateful to V-LINC, your class and everyone that helped on the projects."
However, Matthew isn't the only person receiving something from this project. He was so happy that he decided to make a thank-you card for all the new friends he made.
John Walker, project coordinator for V-LINC, also had some kind words to say. "The enthusiasm that the class showed from the start of the project is fully reflected here," he said. "All of us who have been with the family understand how much of a challenge Matthew is. You and the class have made life better for him and his mother."
