September 23 – October 4, 2025
From September 23 through October 4, my son Stone and I embarked on a truly unforgettable East Coast adventure. What started as a series of advocacy presentations and meetings turned into a profound journey of discovery, connection, and personal triumph – for both of us. From Atlanta to Washington, DC, and finally New York City, Stone showed up each day with courage, insight, and joy, proving once again that when we presume competence, doors open not just for communication – but for transformation.
Atlanta Highlights
- We began in Atlanta, where Stone and I gave a keynote presentation for a national wood products and paper association. The presentation focused on Stone’s journey and the power of presuming competence. Afterward, one attendee shared that she had a non-speaking 5-year-old autistic granddaughter, and that our session gave her hope. She deeply appreciated the resources we offered.
- We also joined other parents, spellers, and practitioners to begin planning the Presume Competence Fest, scheduled for October 2026. This will be a retreat-style gathering designed for non-speakers, families, and supportive resource providers. What began as a casual meet-up has grown into something much more impactful and far-reaching.
- College Football Hall of Fame & Atlanta Icons On Wednesday, we visited the College Football Hall of Fame, which Stone loved, along with Centennial Park and SkyView Atlanta (a massive Ferris wheel similar to the Seattle Great Wheel).
- Georgia Aquarium Visit After our keynote on Thursday, we explored the Georgia Aquarium. It was absolutely world-class – Stone especially loved the enormous viewing windows and the beluga whales.
Washington, DC Highlights
- We had an inspiring and productive day on Capitol Hill, meeting with congressional staff and advocating for national communication rights for non-speakers. Stone confidently shared his story with multiple staffers and made a lasting impression.
- We had a personal meeting with Congresswoman Kim Schrier, a former pediatrician, who was visibly moved by Stone’s communication and story. She encouraged us to speak directly with pediatric associations and share our advocacy within medical circles.
- Stone and I spent time at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Stone was captivated by the exhibits and shared thoughtful reflections throughout.
- We took the Amtrak train from Washington DC to New York City – providing another new experience for Stone. We arrived in Penn Station and checked into our hotel, located in Times Square.
New York City Highlights
- On Thursday, we presented at the global headquarters of Burson, one of the largest PR and communications firms in the world. Employees from offices around the globe tuned in live, and the session is being shared as a recorded video for those who missed it.
- The employees who attended in person were incredibly gracious and generous with their feedback. Many came up to thank us and said the session was both eye-opening and inspiring.
- Before the presentation, we visited the 9/11 Memorial and took time to reflect. As we stood by the South Tower reflecting pool in the early quiet hours of the morning, I asked Stone what he was thinking. He replied, “I feel the aura of the tragedy at this spot.”
- During the presentation, an employee asked Stone, “What can we teach our neurotypical children about how to interact with kids like you?” Stone responded: “Teach them to be kind because we can hear every single comment they make about us—even when they call us retarded.” It was a mic drop moment. Stone calmly spelled it out on a laminated letter board for all to see. There were tears in the room.
NYC Reflections and Joyful Moments
- Thursday evening, we spontaneously attended a New York Rangers game at Madison Square Garden – a bucket list experience for me. Stone had a great time soaking in the energy of the arena and watching NHL Hockey at an arena where the home team was celebrating its 100th (!) anniversary.
- On Friday, we toured the Statue of Liberty. On the ferry ride back, as we stopped at Ellis Island, Stone grew emotional. I asked him why, and he spelled: “I can’t believe I’m here at Ellis Island where our ancestors came into the country. I can’t imagine how scary that must have been coming someplace new with absolutely nothing and not knowing the language.”
- Friday night, we explored Rockefeller Center and Times Square fully lit up. Stone told me the trip had exceeded his expectations. I told him: this is just the beginning.
More posts and reflections to come – but for now, I just want to say how grateful I am. To all the organizations and individuals who made this trip possible, and to everyone who continues to support and believe in Stone’s voice: thank you. You are helping change the world.