Rick's Story

Rick was born on October 3, 1970 at St John’s Hospital in Lowell. He was a very handsome 9 lbs. 4 oz. baby with beautiful ebony eyes and a cute bald head. Looking at Rick’s physical appearance you would never know the mystery called autism lingered within.

As the journey of development began, he displayed many unusual behaviors such as hand flapping, echolalia, difficulty with transitioning and prone to following the same rituals over and over. He also had poor eye contact which has improved over the years. Rick was full of energy as a child. He loved to run and jump. He especially got pleasure jumping on me and hugging and squeezing me every time he saw me. Usually autistic children do not like affection, but that is not the case with Rick. Rick had no choice because Mum and I hugged and kissed him all the time.

Rick was a lot of work but he also brought us great joy. As a young child myself, I had to adjust to a brother with special needs. Throughout life’s journey, we have learned together. He is my brother and I love him dearly.

Rick is now a 5 Ft. 8 In. 32 year old. He has grown into a very warm, kind young man. He lives in a beautiful home on our beloved family farm. Rick lives with his three friends John, David and Chris. Rick and his friends love to play basketball, go bowling together, swinging, gardening and looking at the cows. Rick attends an excellent work program at Minuteman ARC in West Concord, one of the sites is Noah’s Farm, where he learned to take care of animals with special needs. Rick enjoys many activities. His favorite past-time is riding on the tractor with Uncle Charlie. He has also become an accomplished photographer and drummer by attending a special program at Lesley University. We proudly take Rick to the Boston Pops, Phantom of the Opera and any other music event you can think of, because music is his supreme pleasure. He is a wonderful dining companion because he is such a gentleman.

Through PALS Inc. we are on a quest to make a personal network of support that will continue our goal that Rick will always be part of a nurturing group who will advocate for him and carry on our mission of maintaining Rick’s health, happiness, security and living a normal, fulfilling, productive life.

Written by Kelly Robbins, Rick’s sister.