Brantley's first baseball season with the Miracle League came to a close last weekend, marking the end of a chapter I’m sad to see end.
It’s hard to believe that just a few months ago, I was uncertain about how Brantley would handle Miracle League—or how Miracle League would handle my wild boy.
This season showed me that Brantley and Miracle League fit together like a perfect pitch and a well-timed swing.
The joy that spread across Brantley’s face each Saturday as I pulled his uniform from the closet revealed everything I needed to know about his love for the game. The unwavering kindness and support of the volunteers, who embraced Brantley’s wild ways without hesitation, were a testament to Miracle League’s mission to give every child the chance to play baseball.
As the final game concluded, it was clear how much this experience meant to Brantley. His tears, fierce and unrelenting, spoke volumes about the bittersweet end of something he had come to cherish.
The field became a place where he could not only play baseball but also be part of a team. His joy was evident in every game, especially as he skipped along the outfield without his shoes, paying homage to Shoeless Joe Jackson.
When the final score was called and Brantley’s season ended, the weight of it hit him hard. As I carried him off the field, his sobs were a poignant reminder of how significant these moments were. Yet, even in the sadness, there was a glimmer of hope—a vision of a future where every child, regardless of their abilities, has the chance to step up to the plate and swing for the fences.
Brantley now proudly displays his first trophy on his shelf, a symbol of his journey and the joy he found in every swing. This season was more than just baseball; it was about finding a place where Brantley could truly shine, a place where he fit in. That, in itself, is a victory worth celebrating. #autismfamily #autismlife #autismparent #specialneedsparenting #adaptivesports #miracleleague
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