Dexter's severe cerebral palsy makes it difficult for him to quickly make friends... but, it doesn't stop him from making friends with people who take the time to see him.
She reassured us that people would really see Dexter and that genuine friendhsips were possible. We love her, for her ability to see Dexter.
And, so, when Dexter went to school, we were a little sad to be leaving his friend, but hopeful new friendships would form.
And, they did,
Fast and firm friendships.
In Kindergarten and Year One, Dexter had a lovely group of children around him. There was one girl in particular, who stole his heart.
We don't really see Dexter and his friend interacting at school. We imagine she treats him just like Maria treats Nicolas.
In Year Two, there are some other children around him, and his favourite friend sees him during the breaks.
Dexter plays in the games room, has books read to him and toys draped over him, he paints and draws and has blocks towered up on his wheelchair tray. He's played football at lunch and the kids helped him score a try.
We know that having conversations with Dexter can be difficult; he doesn't have the words to answer. But, just like Nicolas, Dexter's smile and eyes convey so much.
We know his wheelchair and his cerebral palsy make it difficult for him to play games, and we love that his friends and teachers make sure he is included.
Dexter loves school and a bit part of that is the friendship he gets from so many wonderful kids.
The boy in this animation has cerebral palsy. He comes to school and meets Maria, who does everything to help Nicolas play. He adores her and she sees him. She believes in him.
This is a beautiful film about inclusion and acceptance and the joy that can be found in real friendships.
But, this is a raw and honest film, based on a real little boy, named Nicolas. And, sadly, Nicolas dies in the short film.
I'm giving this away, because it's sad. It's also real.
Sometimes, that happens.
Because of Dexter's long NICU days, his cancer fight and countless nights spent in hospital, we have seen many, many very sick children. We remember the names and faces of children who are no longer here. We still feel the heartache at hearing their parents cry.
We have had many scares with Dexter.
We have watching him struggle and fight to live.
We have watched teams of medical staff working on his little body; fighting to keep him with us.
So, while the end of this film is sad, it's also real.
Much love to the families who lost a child and will remain in our hearts and memories forever.
Much gratitude to the doctors and medical teams who have helped Dexter.
And much love to the people who see past the disabilities and really notice people like Dexter. (How lucky they are.)
Cuerdas Cortometraje Oficial : "Cuerdas" is a short film written and directed by Pedro Solís García. "Cuerdas" was the 2014 winner of the the Goya ® award for "the Best Spanish short film animation"."
Help us raise awareness by telling people about cerebral palsy. Can you make an activity more inclusive, so someone who faces extra hurdles can play too?
Over on instagram, we're sharing daily challenges. Come over and play along.
#cerebralpalsy
School Disco Night! 2018
Would You Like Some Cake, Dexter?
Open Letter Thanking Parents for the Parties
I’m a Kindy Kid!
My Unicorn Friend
Dexter's First Month
Dexter's Vision
Dexter's Cerebral Palsy
Dexter's Cancer
Who is Dexter?
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