Clara was born in November 2016, and from the very beginning, she brought joy to everyone around her. Her laughter is infectious, and her smile can light up the darkest room.
As she grew, she missed several milestones, did not start to babble and her motor skills were developing slower. By the age of two, she started her first steps and in the coming years, she met most milestones - but at her own pace. Except a handfull of words, Clara is non-verbal, but this does not stop her. Clara shows the world her unique way of communicating. She has a remarkable ability to express herself through signing, sign language, and her talker device, making her thoughts and feelings known to those who take the time to listen. And if this does not work, she just takes your hand and shows you, what she means.
One of her favorite activities is horse riding, where she feels a special connection with the horses.
She also loves our dog Abby, which is not just a pet but a loyal companion who understands Clara's silent language. Sometimes, when Clara's love and cuddling is even to much, Abby takes a short break but soon comes back .
Clara's ambition is evident in her love for school, where she is currently learning to read and write. Her teachers admire her determination and creativity, as she approaches each new challenge with enthusiasm. Even though most achievements take more effort for Clara then for most kids, she rarely gives up.
This is not only true for school, but also for other activities. For her little brother Clemens, most things are much easier to learn. He got on the bike and just drove away, where it took Clara more than a year, but in the end, she managed. Same was for swimming and using the toilet. In the end, she managed.
Clara and Clemens love each other like typical siblings, they play with each other like typical siblings, and they fight with each other like typical siblings. Sometimes Clemens annoys Clara by running faster than her, but sometimes he cuts back and let her take the win. As a parent of a special need kid, we are glad for everything that is typical - sometimes even the fighting.
Recently, Clara joined the Girl Guides, a group that welcomed her with open arms. Despite being the only special needs kid in the group, having difficulties communicating with the others and not knowing anybody, she was walking into the room and told us (very proud) parents to leave and pick her up later.
Through all her experiences, Clara has shown that communication is not limited to spoken words. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and the power of connection. Clara's journey is an inspiration to everyone who knows her, reminding us that every child has a voice that deserves to be heard, and every story is worth telling.