Connor's Story
Welcome to Connor's Voice. I'd like to begin by telling you a bit about my son, Connor, so you can get a sense of who he was and who he still is to us that love him. It's a long read and it means a lot to me that you are taking the time to read it.
Connor was born on 16th September 2000, in Winchester. His entrance into this world was somewhat dramatic, and being the force of nature that he was, his presence was felt immediately - something that never changed. Connor made a lasting impression on everyone who came into his life because of his positive attitude, enjoyment of life, and sense of fun. He was a fighter right from the start. Throughout his life, he battled against things that would have floored anyone else, but Connor had other ideas. Connor had a zest for life , he certainly had a cheeky, mischievous side and a knack of making you smile even when he was misbehaving.
His early years were spent at Icknield School in Andover, where he thrived and began using pecs and symbols for communication. He was also learning Makaton signing, but for him, this was difficult to pick up. Connor later went to Grove Park School in East Sussex, where he received an iPad with the talking app Proloquo2Go which enabled him to make his own choices and helped him communicate in a better way. Having the app was definitely a turning point for him as his frustration levels lessened. He then returned to Icknield to finish off his school life. I think we all wished he could stay at Icknield forever as life in the adult world was going to be challenging at times. He continued to use his iPad more efficiently and was making choices in his life of who he wanted to see and where he wanted to go.
Even though Connor had these communication aids, it was his ability of non-verbal cues that really was impressive. It could be a look, a touch , a gesture. He would say so much, but not utter a word. He did make sounds, the change in his sounds would be an indicator of his mood. What I will never forget is his happy, excited sounds that were an absolute delight.
Connors' medical history is extensive and very well documented. He was diagnosed with Noonan’s Syndrome, which was later changed in 2008 to Cardiofaciocutaneous (CFC). His condition presented him with numerous problems, which included bowel problems, eating, learning difficulties and global developmental delay. Throughout his life, he needed 24-hour care and support. However, despite what life threw at him, he always came through it with a smile. You couldn't help but be charmed by Connor and fall in love with him.
