The Heelan Family's Story

 Mother of three boys; Ryan, Sam and Owen, Annie Heelan is as proud as any mother could be of her children, not least because they have overcome so much to live the happy, fruitful lives they enjoy as a family today. In her own words, Annie explains the difference The Wessex Autistic Society has made to her family.

 Annie’s eldest son, Ryan is 16 and was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of four. In the years that followed, the Heelan’s 2^nd and 3^rd sons, Sam and Owen, were both diagnosed with severe autism, both when they were little more than 2 years old.

“Following two lengthy tribunals, both boys started at Portfield School in 2008, at the ages of 11 and 9 respectively. The boys haven’t looked back since. Portfield School and the residential facilities have helped the boys enormously. Both Sam and Owen have access to activities that other children take for granted. The boys being at Portfield allows myself, my husband James, and our other son, Ryan, access to the world again too!

"Sam and Owen enjoy an ‘inclusive’ existence at Portfield School ; one where their behaviour is never perceived in a negative way. Both boys are non verbal, but Sam has learnt to read and spell and communicates with the aid of PECS. Owen has learnt to dress himself and use the toilet. Owen is also non verbal, but communicates via PECS, just like his big brother.”

Annie comments; “I feel very privileged that two of my children go to Portfield School. The help, support, guidance and compassion that staff at Portfield School and Parley 2 have shown is without doubt truly commendable. Nothing is ever too much trouble for the staff and they are always enthusiastic and willing to help in any way they can. The staff are never critical. At last my family fit in well and are not judged.”

Annie concludes; “The Society has helped us as a family enormously. They have given us a chance to live again, and not just exist. My hope for my boys in the future is to ensure a seamless transition into adult care as they grow up and leave Portfield, but most of all, I hope they will be as proud of themselves as I am of them.”