Sallie, what do you admire most about your grandson with autism?
Sallie: Three qualities that come to mind about Jack are kindness to others, empathy to his degree of understanding, and love for his older siblings and parents.
You and Jack’s grandfather care for him while his parents travel. How is that experience for you both?
Sallie: Jack’s mother researched, studied, and developed plans for his early education, starting with ABA Therapy during the Pre-K years. Our job as grandparents has been to follow her lead. In those early years, I made numerous long-distance calls asking how to address various situations, but learning more, we have developed an acceptable-enough routine. Jack has his room at our house. We enjoy his visits and learning his points of view. He enjoys us too.
Tell us about Dream Court and how the program positively impacts Jack’s life.
Sallie: There are not enough words to cover the positive impact of Dream Court. After thirteen years at Churchill, Jack missed the students, teachers, and activities. On a smaller scale, his years at Dream Court allowed him to continue social interaction, physical activity, and mental stimulation. The coaches and volunteers are encouraging and positive reinforcers, while still teaching tennis rules and court courtesies. Dream Court players develop self-esteem and acceptance of others regardless of their differences. Jack was among the first to register for Dream Court, and eleven years after its founding by Jessica Weyreuter, I have yet to see anything to rival this adaptive tennis program.
What do you and Jack enjoy doing together for fun?
Sallie: While traveling, pontooning, and lake activities are enjoyed with his parents, Jack settles for “Grandmother’s speed” activities with me. Our favorites are the Fort Toulouse Reenactment, the Mann Museum, and the Montgomery Zoo. We also go for pizza and grocery shopping. Jack selects the favorites he wants while at our house. Sometimes we visit the Farmer’s Market. We formerly shopped for DVDs, but that became too expensive. Now we try to find them on eBay!
How do you navigate communicating with Jack since speaking verbally is difficult for him?
Sallie: Jack makes his wants known. It may be with short phrases and/or in response to our questions, but he gets it done. On the other hand, he recites cartoons and sings complete songs with no language difficulty, which is known as scripting. He enjoys it, and so do we.
What has Jack taught you through his special needs?
Sallie: Earning the trust of a special needs child is a treasure that must be protected. Jack has also taught us that happiness can be found in the simplest of things—pizza, a favorite video, sweet tea, and chocolate cake.
What do you hope Jack remembers through your connection?
Sallie: I want him to remember that he was loved and accepted for who he was, always felt safe, and holds dear the days spent with his Namaw and Papaw. Jack is happy. His impact has made us better people.
Bio: Sallie Brock has been married to Macon Brock, Sr. for 63 years. They have two children: Bonnie and Macon Jr. and three grandchildren: Brock, Gracie, and Jack. The couple resides in Elmore County.
