The Mae Series
The Mae Series 9/9: Cassie, School Resource Officer
As I was chatting with co-workers I overheard dispatch send an officer to an address for a 7-year-old girl with DS who could not be found in her home. I immediately recognized the address as Mae’s home, jumped into my cruiser, and started to head to the house. Every scenario was running through my head.
The Mae Series 8/9: Natalie, STAR Swim Instructor & Family Friend
The first time I met Mae, she was quiet and just taking in the scene at the community pool. As quiet as she was, I knew there was a spark inside her. I went in the water with another little friend and Mae soon followed us in with her swim instructor.
The Mae Series 7/9: Jaimie, Family Friend
The first time I met Mae I was teaching paddle boarding, when she was 3 or 4. Getting on the paddle board with a new person is scary in itself, and then this crazy lady told her it was time to stand up. She was resistant for a little bit, but then she just popped up. When she realized she was standing on her own the biggest grin spread across her face.
The Mae Series 6/9: Tharon, Friend
My favorite memory of Mae is when one day after school Mae asked her mom if she could have a sleepover at my house. I hope that we can do this one day soon!
The Mae Series 5/9: Ellie, Sister
She helps me and she likes to try new things. One time I fell down at the playground and Mae came to help me up. She loves to help me and it makes me feel good.
The Mae Series 4/9: Drew, Brother
I love that Mae is different and unique. I love how much she loves being with me. I was playing a game with her once and she was having so much fun, she said I love playing games with you Drewski. It made me feel happy.
The Mae Series 3/9: Andrew, Dad
There are so many moments of being Mae’s Dad that have transformed who I am as a person that it’s hard to choose. I think the most giving part of Mae is her ability to make you feel so loved. She knows when I need a hug, she knows when to make me smile and laugh, and she knows when to give me a hard time. She’s taught me patience in a whole new way.
The Mae Series 2/9: Susie, Mom
We were getting ready to leave for school and I asked Mae to take her backpack and get in the car. She was focused on something more pressing. I asked again. And again. Until finally she perked up, lunged forward, extended her right arm in a pointer-finger-trigger stance, winked, and shouted “Don’t sass me, old lady!” I was stunned. “What did you say?”
