A couple of weeks ago Bobby took RJ to Royal's game. Someone from a local 'dream granting organization' asked Bobby if RJ had received a 'wish' or a 'dream'. Bobby told him that no, RJ had not received one and the gentleman gave Bobby his card to contact him. They have corresponded via e-mail since and Bobby arranged for me to talk to one of the screeners today. They wanted to know about RJ's history and about him in general. After I provided the information, the screener seemed a little annoyed and told me that 'the child has to be able to tell them what they want for their dream'. Um, he's non-verbal. I don't know if he could comprehend the concept of a 'dream'. I looked on the website of the organization and sure enough it states this:
Question:
Question:
Does the family have input in what dream will be granted?
Answer:
It is important that the dream be that of the child’s and not other family members. For this reason, the child must be able to communicate his dream to The XXXXX XXXXXXX screening volunteers.
I am not saying that we should choose FOR him what his dream should be, but as his parents, we do know what he does and does not like. There have to be other kiddos who have non been able to speak their wishes that have had dreams granted. I'm obviously just a little frustrated. It was a nice gesture but apparently a waste of time.
5 comments:
So Sorry, and it's just not fair. I admire you for all you do. You make me work harder and be more caring and understaning of the families at my job.
Thanks Laurie. I should follow my own advice that I give MJ "You get what you get and you don't throw a fit". Sometimes you have to throw a fit though :-) And then you feel better.
It just makes me sad they would deny my sweet boy because he can't speak. It makes you wonder how many other children were also denied because they didn't have a voice.
I think you should send your post to Oprah or Ellen. Maybe Ellen, since I like her so much. Seriously, you really should.
How sad! Yes, send this on to Ellen. Who knows--she could make this organization rethink its whole mission (or at least feel stupid about their ignorance)You should throw a fit. You deserve to every now and then!
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