Just call me Jon’s Sister…

By Lisha Barnette

I have been known by many titles in my life, but there are few that give me the overwhelming pride I feel in being a sister to my brother Jon.

Jon was born in 1981 in a small town in Kentucky. My parents who were in their mid-20’s at the time, laid an everlasting foundation for Jon and me that would later shape who we became as adults.  There was never a moment when they accepted anything less than the best for my brother.  My parents quickly understood the importance of early intervention so that Jon could get a running start in this world.  Navigating those first few years was challenging and by far some of my most formative years.  I was a big sister and so proud of that title.

My parents found amazing opportunities at a time when resources and acceptance were still forming, compared to what many of us are accustomed to today.  My father pursued positions within his company to move us to an area with great schooling opportunities.  My mom set up early intervention resources and therapies while working with Jon every day to give him what he needed.  My parents’ motto was, “The sky is the limit,” and that is the philosophy we followed each day.

Jon & Mom

As we moved around in Jon’s first few years, we were lucky enough to end up in a community where we found a wonderful school, amazing teachers and therapists, and a place for Jon to flourish.  And that’s exactly what happened.  Jon spent 20 years in the same community learning, growing, and feeling accomplished in his young life.  I am often reminded of the days when I would visit Jon at his school.  I would sign into the office and tell them I was coming to see Jon, and they would always reply, “Oh, you are Jon’s sister.”  I was never prouder of hearing stories about him and knowing he was exactly where he was meant to be.

It has been 14 years since Jon graduated and we are now searching for new opportunities so Jon can flourish once again.  It is difficult once school is over and you graduate.  When you are in school, there is a natural cadence of socialization, attending events and a sense of belonging that becomes a part of your daily life.  When that chapter is over, it is a pivotal time for the entire family.  While many families continue to find opportunities for their loved one, it can become the family’s sole responsibility to assist and create these opportunities for their adult children or sibling.  This is where I am now in my role as a big sister.  There is a need to assist and find opportunities for Jon to continue to grow and flourish and live up to his full potential.

In January, I began to hear about a place called GiGi’s Playhouse.  Upon hearing the mission of GiGi’s, I was instantly intrigued and enthusiastic about it.  After attending the grand opening, I was excited that such a place existed so close to home.  This was an opportunity that was perfect for Jon.  Jon attended the Fantastic Friends program several times this spring and really enjoyed his time.  It was often a highlight of his week and a joy to find such a welcoming group of participants and volunteers.

As a family member, GiGi’s encompasses a wonderful social opportunity that I am happy to see for Jon, a place to be accepted for exactly who you are, a place where he is a focus with appropriate programming and expectations, and a place where he can make friends.  I saw Jon attend two Fantastic Friends events.  He was participating in ice breakers, doing crafts, talking to new people, and dancing at a country music themed Hoe Down.  It was great to see him meeting participants and volunteers while trying new activities and having fun with others.  He is eager to come back to GiGi’s when he visits again in the fall.

Jon enjoys socializing at Fantastic Friends!

I am optimistic and excited to see what Jon’s future holds, and I am so proud to be part of it.  GiGi’s Playhouse allows for a wonderful social opportunity for many ages and I am so happy it is in our community.  So if you see me around the Playhouse or out in the community, please say hi.  And if you forget my name, don’t worry.  You can always call me Jon’s sister.

Editor’s Note:

We are thrilled that Lisha will be leading our Fantastic Friends program along with Amanda on  October 5, October 19, November 2!