From Hyeyoung Lee—

Raising a child with autoimmune encephalitis and autism has not been easy for our family. My husband and I are first-generation immigrants in the United States, without family support nearby. I had to leave my job to take care of Joshua, and there were times when our family felt lonely and exhausted from countless therapies, hospital appointments, slow progress, and heartbreaking regressions.

But one day, when we finally looked up, we realized that we were surrounded by a kind and loving community. We have beautiful parks, fun playgrounds, caring neighbors, healthcare providers, and therapists who support Joshua. Most importantly, we have a school and friends who love Joshua just as he is.

Kindness is the greatest superpower. It can change someone’s whole life — just like it changed Joshua’s.

Joshua is the person who makes me laugh every day. Only my brother can give me endless happiness in this world. I know my brother has this special ability. 

I am happy to go to school with my brother every day. At school, his friends, teachers, and I all became more joyful because of Joshua’s unique gift.