A Short Story

Darren 

Darren had a really tough life. As a young child and teenager with Global Development Delay, challenging behaviour, severe anxiety and complex needs, he was looked after by approximately 12 foster homes. 

I met Darren when he was roughly 14 years old. He was tall, well built, hung his head low, and wore such a sad expression on his face. He disliked school. He found it almost impossible to concentrate, to effectively listen, and digest information. He was always nervous and had frequent and prolonged inappropriate behaviour outbursts. 

You see, Darren, although only 14 years on this earth, experienced neglect, abuse, betrayal, emptiness, loneliness, and much more. He experienced pain that most of us would find difficult to comprehend. 

As I got to know Darren, I quickly realised that he was a gentle giant, a kind being, an inspiring soul. We worked together. We laughed together and cried together. I challenged Darren. I believed in him. He started believing in himself. He worked hard and hit each goal. 

Fast forward on a number of years and Darren now tells his story to help others. He is an ambassador not only for those with Intellectual disabilities, but for all children and young people. He teaches about the damage and destruction that ruled his life for so long, and how he managed to overcome this. 

Darren became powerful. He is powerful. He has talked in many places and inspires others. 

Through creative interventions along with intensive self-belief, self-determination, and creative programmes, Darren is a truly inspirational, happy, and determined man. 

Onwards Darren... 
Believing is achieving...
Anything is possible...