When Susan Baker took her son Andrew, who has autism, to go tubing, she likely went into the day knowing that whether or not Andrew had any difficulties with the activity, that he would be able to persevere - but she didn't expect the overwhelming kindness and support showed by mountain staff. In a sweet thank you note to the staff posted on the Snow Valley Resort Barrie Facebook page, Baker outlines all of the wonderful things the staff there did for Andrew, and why it means so much to both her and her son.
"Thank you for pausing the tow-rope a thousand times for Andrew.
Thank you for remaining calm when Andrew rolled out of his tube, again and again, on the many attempts to get him to the top that first time.
Thank you for not making us feel bad that 30 plus people were waiting in line while we created a hold-up for what felt like an eternity.
Thank you for working with us, not against us, to figure it out.
Thank you for doing your job. And for showing others how it's done - to treat people with dignity and respect, no matter what.
And thank you to Megan for running up the length of the tow-rope hill alongside Andrew sitting in his tube, coaching him to stay *in* the tube, and cheering him when he (finally) successfully got to the top.
Thank you for letting me hug you, overcome with my own emotions!"
Baker continues her thank you to tell the staff that their efforts paid off, for once Andrew got the hang of it, he got it for good - and he was proud of himself. "I couldn't wipe the smile off his face (his cheeks must have hurt), and the look of pride and glee was unmistakable," Baker wrote. The grateful mom shared that she was so choked up by the end of the experience that she could barely get the words out to tell Andrew how proud she was of him.
Baker ends her thankful note addressing everyone who played a part in Andrew's morning. "And now you've met Andrew, and you've been given one of the gifts of autism: the chance to RISE UP and choose to experience patience, tolerance, compassion, and love . . . " she wrote. "It's not a lack of belief in his ability; it's an acknowledgment of the effort that's required - on his part, and mine - to overcome obstacles. To persevere. And to shine a light for others to see the ABILITY in a 'dis'ability."
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