The featured speaker at our May 2009 Livin’ Lovin’ Lunchin’ was Eric Thompson. Eric is a South Medford graduate who currently works for the City of Medford, managing mailroom services. He is a distance runner, who also enjoys playing the piano, riding his bike, running errands in his truck, and spending time with his sisters, nieces & nephews. When Eric was identified as a child with autism, his parents Kirsten & Kelly Thompson found themselves catapulted into a confusing world of a disability they did not understand. They felt isolated and alone as they faced the responsibility of meeting their son’s needs. They were bolstered by the mentorship of his sisters, who were not intimidated by the word “autism.” When Kelly & Kirsten were holding back to protect him, Eric’s sisters only saw possibilities and limitless opportunities for their little brother. “Why can’t he do it? It will be fun to teach him. Let him do it. He will be okay.” As Kirsten puts it, Eric’s life teaches us critical life lessons: “triumph over difficulty breeds confidence, and confidence fosters a desire to tackle new challenges.” They have learned that opportunity is the key to unlocking the best within us. By helping Eric discover his skills and interests, matching those abilities with the right job and providing the essential on-going support to be successful in his work, Living Opportunities has furthered Eric’s desire to gain quality and control in his life. Opportunity—that’s what it’s all about.
