A Penrhyncoch family are appealing for volunteers to take part in their autistic son’s home programme.

Philip Stevens has just had his 17th birthday. He loves drumming, listening to rock and jazz music, bouncing on a gym ball, and strumming on a guitar. He has a cheeky sense of humour, an infectious giggle and an endearing smile.

He also has autism, significant learning delays/difficulties, and Oral Crohn’s Disease (Orofacial Granulomatosis).

For most of his life, he has been educated at home by his mother, Anna Stevens, and teams of incredible volunteers his mother has trained.

Once strangers, many volunteers have become treasured life-long friends.

Currently, Philip’s mother is employing a social/relational programme called The Son-Rise Program.

Son-Rise prioritises human interaction and aims to support a child to become socially successful. The development of verbal communication skills is one of the primary focuses, and Philip’s parents are excited that he is now beginning to learn to talk. He uses many speech sounds intentionally to ask for things he wants.

Philip’s mother has been out to the USA twice this year to attend two five-day training courses in The Son-Rise Program at The Option Institute and Autism Treatment Centre of America in Sheffield, Massachusetts.

Now, armed with hope, knowledge, inspiration, and excitement, she is looking for her next team of people to help Philip achieve his goals.

Heddwen Daniel, who volunteered with the family for several years, said: “Being a part of Philip’s life was a wonderful experience which I treasure to this day.

“Each step forward Philip took meant so much to me. It was wonderful to see him grow and develop.

“The training and experience I had helped to enhance my people skills, and I have been able to put these skills into practice in other aspects of my life.”

To find out more about volunteering in Philip’s Son-Rise Program, get in touch with Anna by emailing [email protected].

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