Sometimes, life takes you in a direction you never imagined. And in those moments, you realize just how much is possible.
This past fall, Stone and I participated in a webinar hosted by the Northwest Augmentative Communication Society titled “Thoughtful Inquiry: Spelling for Communication.” Its purpose was to give SLPs an opportunity to hear directly from young adults who have been positively impacted by spelling as a method of communication.
Little did I know this webinar would spark something so profound.
Shortly after the event, a local SLP reached out with an incredible opportunity. She’s working with a 13-year-old student in rural Washington who recently began spelling. While his school and district have been open to incorporating spelling into his education—a major step forward—he’s still in the early stages of learning to communicate openly. The SLP had a bold and beautiful idea:
Would Stone be open to mentoring this young student and even serving as an advocate on his IEP team?
Stone didn’t hesitate for a moment. He said yes, with his signature mix of courage and compassion, adding, “My goal is to help him thrive in school.”
Last week, we had a “get to know you” meeting with the teen and his aunt, who is also his communication partner. Watching Stone step into this leadership role with wisdom, empathy, and encouragement nearly brought me to tears. He wasn’t just sharing advice—he was inspiring.
Today, Stone and I participated in the teen’s IEP meeting via Zoom. Once again, Stone blew me away. He took his role as mentor and advocate seriously, sharing insights that clearly resonated with the team. At one point, a teacher said she was close to tears hearing Stone’s reflections on his own journey and what he had endured to gain the understanding he now has.
Here are some of the things Stone shared during the meeting. Each comment carries a weight that only someone who’s lived this experience can bring:
I’M GLAD I CAN HELP
WE HAVE TO BE RESILIENT. WE HAVE NO CHOICE.
I MOSTLY HOPE HE GETS ACCESS TO REAL CURRICULUM
YES SOMETIMES WE ARE ENGAGED EVEN THOUGH WE DON’T LOOK LIKE IT
YES IT CAN HELP JUST TO STEP OUT FOR A BIT
MOSTLY I FAILED EVERY TEST IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
And one that really stuck with me:
MOSTLY I FAILED EVERY TEST IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
But here’s the thing: Stone didn’t fail. He’s thriving. And now, he’s using his voice to help others thrive too.
This feels like the beginning of something much bigger—a network of non-speaking mentors who can guide younger non-speakers and their families through the often-painful journey of accommodations and advocacy in schools. Role models matter, and Stone is showing what’s possible.
Imagine what it could mean for younger non-speakers to have mentors—someone who understands what they’re going through and can help them navigate the challenges of school, advocacy, and finding their voice. This moment feels like the start of something extraordinary.
Two years ago, none of this felt within reach. Today, it feels like a revolution in the making.
Thank you, Stone, for your leadership, resilience, and heart. And thank you to the educators and SLPs who are listening, making space for voices that deserve to be heard.
The future is brighter because of moments like this.
