Chugging Up the Hill
Working through my son’s complex web of autism symptoms to get him out in the world has been a heart wrenching, years-long effort. Just getting him to a trailhead felt like a miracle. Once at a trail, his sensory overload made it hard for him to move forward. We did what we called the “Fred and Ginger shuffle” to get him moving. Sean would hug one of us parents, eyes closed and head on one of our shoulders. The parent played Fred Astaire, moving forward while guiding Sean’s reluctant Ginger Rogers backward, inch by inch, foot by foot, until he loosened up and was able to face forward and walk. He started and stopped frequently, and we had to do the Fred and Ginger dance several times on one hike, but we were moving. Over years of hiking, Sean’s ability to walk independently grew. Hiking poles were initially a good stabilizing tool, but eventually Sean stopped using them. Next thing we knew, he was charging up steep hills at a fast clip. Now we’re the ones working to keep up with him. Steep hills—literal hills and the hills of life’s challenges—can look daunting from the bottom, but there’s usually something gratifying at the top. A grand view, or a sense of accomplishment or relief. When I huff and puff on really steep stretches, I remember how lucky I am to be in a stunning location, and how grateful I am that I have to chase my confident hiker Sean up the hill. This week the featured hike from the archives is Pedro Point South Ridge Trail, a sometimes steep and often windy trail in the Pedro Point Headlands with breathtaking views. Next time you’re facing up a steep hill, remember we are all fortunate to have the ability to try, even if it takes a long time and we need help to get to the top. There’s usually something to be thankful for after the climb. Keep putting one foot forward! Check the Home page for the broader background story. Click Insights/Hike Update News for inspiring reflections. Browse hikes on the main Hikes page or on the Hike Search by Area page, and scroll to the bottom of each hike page to see full photo galleries. If you’d like to support HikingAutism, check out the Support/Shop page! Check out selected articles and interviews under Media. Click World Walks to see or share favorite family-friendly walks! Stay in touch with Lisa Louis and HikingAutism via Contact. The Links page lists a loose collection of helpful information links. Feel free to share and follow on Facebook at HikingAutism, follow on Twitter at @HikingAutism and Instagram at lisalouis777 New this week: Hike Notes 33: Pedro Point South Ridge Trail
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Lisa LouisSharing insights and hiking highlights (Hikes, Hike Search by Area) from the special needs caregiver front in San Francisco. Archives
November 2024
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