APRIL IS AUTISM ACCEPTANCE MONTH
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| Listed July 2020 |
"Leonard"
Meet handsome "Leonard"! Leonard is 12 years old and living in Africa. In addition to epilepsy, Leonard is also diagnosed with autism.
Leonard has waited for a forever family ever since he was a tiny baby. He was found abandoned on the side of the road, and has since been waiting. He is such a loving kid, and SO deserving of a forever family!
Leonard is a sweet and curious boy. He likes to explore and take whatever he finds, especially shoes! At the end of the day, you might find staff at his orphanage wandering around looking for their missing shoe! Leonard loves when his caregivers interact and play with him. He is extremely clever, and loves books, and anything that spins. He loves any sort of sensory experience, like playing in the dirt, watching lights, and swinging. Leonard is easy to please, and finds joy in the little things. His favorite days at his residential care home are water days! He is rarely ever sad or unhappy, and has a big belly laugh that can be heard even in another room! His joy is truly contagious. Leonard is a very sweet and affectionate boy who likes to hold hands and sit in laps.
As of October 2022 Leonard was nonverbal but will often sing. He communicates by using gestures, verbal sounds, expressions, or body language. Leonard has started to become more independent. He can independently eat, walk, and use the bathroom.
One of the caregivers at Leonard's residential care home says that "I pray so regularly for him to find a forever family because he would just THRIVE. He is the funniest, sweetest, most clever boy. He is always happy - nothing gets him down. He loves all the simple things in life- a good meal, dirt piles, and watching bubbles fly away. He always has at least one favorite toy in his hand. When he feels comfortable with you he'll begin initiating affection- holding your hand, laying on your lap, or leaning against you. He is genuine, pure joy. Leonard would benefit from an autism program, especially as he reaches adulthood, as well as some good dental work and general medical care, although he's generally a healthy child. His age is also making it more and more unlikely he'll find a family. He will need support all his life and we desire that support to be a loving family."
No information is provided publicly about Leonard's epilepsy, but an agency can give more info. One of Leonard's caregivers has said that he has only had three seizures in the past two years (As of November 2022). Leonard's epilepsy is well controlled with medication.
Leonard has a $5,000 grant with Reece's Rainbow towards his adoption!
Sweet "Leonard" has waited 11 long years to find his forever family. He is well taken care of at his residential care home, but that will never replace his need for the consistency and attention he could have with a forever family. With love and access to quality medical care and therapies, he could truly become an incredible son. He is getting older, and desperately needs someone to take a chance on him NOW! Please don't let Leonard experience another Thanksgiving without a forever family. Make an inquiry or donation towards his adoption!
UPDATE MAY 2023
UPDATE JUNE 2023
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