August 2023 Special Needs Living Akron/Canton

MEET AUSTIN RABER

Thriving with simple pleasures and a business of his own…

By Melissa Klatt with photos by Julian Curet

Meet Austin Raber, a remarkable 20-year-old, class of 2022 graduate from Marlington High School, whose journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance and finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. Adopted from an orphanage in Russia at just seven months old, Austin now resides on a picturesque beef and grain farm with his loving parents and three of his four older brothers. Despite being on the autism spectrum and having a cognitive disability, Austin has discovered his passions and talents, forging a path that showcases his incredible spirit and resilience.

AN UNUSUAL, HEARTWARMING COMFORT THAT LED TO A BUSINESS OF HIS OWN

Austin’s love for the feel of trash bags may seem unusual to some, but it has become a unique source of comfort for him. This fascination has led to an extraordinary relationship with the Kimble company, where Austin has developed a special bond with several of the employees there. In fact, he named his 4-H steer this past year Kimble!

Austin Raber’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, love, and acceptance.

MOM SHARES AN INCREDIBLE STORY ABOUT THE IMPACT KIMBLE HAS HAD ON AUSTIN’S LIFE: The Kimble Company of Dover was kind enough to purchase his steer, and with money that Austin has saved from selling his market steers while being in 4-H, he has recently remodeled our old milk house and turned it into his “dream” recycle center and office! For the last several years, Austin has passed out his business cards to friends and posted pictures on Facebook. Furthermore, Austin has channeled his enthusiasm for recycling into a thriving business of his own. When he is not managing his recycling venture, he actively assists his father on the family farm. Additionally, Austin proudly holds a part-time position at Duma Meats, where he continues to develop his social skills and contribute to the community.

PREDICTIONS ABOUT AUSTIN’S FUTURE CAME TRUE

Support and encouragement from family are vital in any individual’s journey, and Austin’s mom is fortunate to have a sister-in-law, Maureen Radalia, who has been an incredible source of comfort and assurance to both her and Austin’s dad. Maureen’s background of thirty-five years in Special Education and reassurance has helped alleviate their worries and fears about Austin’s future. She shared with them that Austin’s life would be filled with beauty, fulfillment, and endless opportunities for growth and happiness.

“When my husband and I first understood that Austin’s cognitive disability was going to play just as prominent a role in his life as his autism, we were overwhelmed,” shares mom, Julia Raber.

“Nevertheless, Maureen shared with us that Austin would continue to blossom into a well-adjusted, happy, resourceful, kind, and productive young man. I remember listening to her words of wisdom and believing in her insights, and Austin has become the young adult whom she described that evening nearly eight years ago.”

We have all heard the adage: “It takes a village to raise a child”. Well, special thanks are extended to all the empathetic and loving family members, teachers, friends, medical professionals, and individuals whom they’ve met on this journey who have all helped to shape Austin into the kind and loving young man he is today.

Austin’s family is a large pillar in the success of the vision Maureen shared that day, and he embraces the love he shares for all his family members! Austin admires his brothers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins… the list goes on! In fact, his favorite time of year is Memorial Day weekend, when he gets to spend time with everyone at the Radalia Family Reunion each year at his uncle’s farm.

EMBRACING HIS UNIQUE GIFTS

Austin’s story teaches us valuable lessons about embracing diversity and celebrating the unique gifts that each individual possesses. Despite facing challenges associated with autism and his cognitive disability, Austin has not allowed them to limit him. His unwavering spirit, combined with the unwavering support of his family and community, has enabled him to carve out his own path and discover his true potential.

Austin Raber’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, love, and acceptance. From his adoption as a young child to his current ventures on the farm, in recycling, and at Duma Meats, Austin exemplifies the joy and fulfillment that can be found in pursuing one’s passions and embracing life’s adventures. His story reminds us all that everyone, regardless of their differences, has the potential to lead a beautiful, fulfilling life when surrounded by support, understanding, and opportunities to thrive. Austin’s journey is an inspiration, urging us to foster an inclusive society where everyone can shine brightly and contribute their unique talents for the betterment of all.