Very tender and loving, Cal feels things more deeply than most. He is naturally witty and enjoys reading and playing video games. Cal recently visited Nintendo Land—a place he already knew inside and out from watching YouTube videos. He did fantastic navigating a new adventure and had such a great time! While he doesn’t always enjoy things that are hard, he works hard and gives his all. The world isn’t always built with him in mind, but Cal keeps showing up and doing his best to thrive in whatever challenges he takes on.
One of the biggest highlights of Cal’s journey has been the growth and resilience he’s shown over the past six years. He has worked through sensory processing challenges, anxiety, eating challenges, and times of feeling overwhelmed. Therapy has been a key part of Cal’s progress. He participated in applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, occupational therapy, speech, and physical therapy. After his autism diagnosis, he spent about two years in intensive ABA therapy, dedicating 30 to 35 hours each week. Over time, that support has become an important foundation for building skills, confidence, and long-term growth.
One of Cal’s many amazing qualities is that he doesn’t shy away from anyone who is different. He always says, “We shouldn’t worry about what other people think or judge by the outside.”
Every day Cal inspires others to live with empathy, patience, and understanding.