November 2023 Special Needs Living Magazine

One of the coolest kids you will ever meet! building and Collecting with Jax Belden!

By Melissa Klatt with Photos by Michelle Herdlick

JACKSON’S JOURNEY: A DIAGNOSIS AND EARLY CHALLENGES

In the early stages of Jackson’s journey, his life took a significant turn when he was diagnosed with autism. Megan Belden, his loving mother, vividly remembers the day they received the diagnosis at Akron Children’s Hospital. Dr. Hull, Jackson’s doctor at the time, gently conveyed the results and where Jackson fell on the autism spectrum. It was a moment filled with mixed emotions, as Megan grappled with accepting this new reality.

Dr. Hull posed a poignant question that lingered in her mind: “Would Jackson come to get her if he saw a firetruck outside the front door?” At that time, her answer was a hesitant “no.” However, as time passed, Jackson’s growth and progress defied expectations, reminding us that every child’s journey unfolds at its own pace. It was not an easy journey, but Megan’s unwavering support and Jackson’s remarkable resilience led to extraordinary breakthroughs.

PASSIONS AND HOBBIES: A WORLD OF CREATIVITY

Jackson’s life is a canvas painted with vibrant hues of creativity and joy. His passions and hobbies have become a source of inspiration for those around him. Among his many interests, building with Legos and collecting Funko Pops and sodas stand out as beloved pastimes. The meticulous craftsmanship and dedication he pours into his Lego creations are a testament to his unwavering enthusiasm for these building blocks of imagination.

Jackson’s collection of Funko Pops and sodas has grown into a colorful display of his favorite characters and icons, reflecting his deep love for pop culture. Additionally, Jackson has cultivated his artistic talents through the magic of YouTube tutorials. He emerged as a skilled artist who brings his unique vision to life on paper, captivating those who see his artwork with its depth and detail.

Jackson’s journey is a testament to the power of nurturing one’s passions. Megan’s openminded approach allowed him to explore and express himself fully, nurturing his talents and interests along the way.

JACKSON’S FUTURE: DREAMS AND ASPIRATIONS

As Jackson continues to grow, he envisions a future where he can immerse himself in the world of movies. His love for all aspects of films, from the characters to the music, fuels his desire to be involved in movie productions. This aspiration reflects his determination to explore new horizons and unleash his creativity on a broader stage.

In addition to his passion for movies, Jackson participates in Canton Challenger Baseball, highlighting his commitment to embracing diverse interests and opportunities. His willingness to explore different activities shows his courage in facing challenges head-on and his readiness to adapt to new experiences.

In the midst of Jackson’s extraordinary journey, his mother, Megan Belden, imparts words of wisdom to other special needs parents. She encourages them to let go of conventional milestones and timelines, emphasizing that each child’s progress unfolds in a unique way and time.

Megan’s advice is a testament to her belief in the power of patience and acceptance. She reminds parents that, despite the challenges, everything will come in due course. Jackson’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the beauty of embracing individuality. It’s a reminder that, with unwavering love and support, every child can blossom into their fullest potential.

Megan’s journey with Jackson has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. She emphasizes that letting go of societal expectations and allowing children to be themselves is essential for their growth and happiness. In her words, “Try to let go of all the milestones and the ages these should be hit. Everything will come in time, it just might not be the typical timeline of most children, and that’s okay.”

Megan’s unwavering support and belief in her son have been pivotal in his journey. She has learned to celebrate every achievement, no matter how small, and to focus on Jackson’s unique strengths and abilities. Megan’s advice to parents of special needs children is a reminder that love, patience, and acceptance are the keys to helping children like Jackson reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

A MOTHER’S WISDOM: NURTURING SPECIAL NEEDS

In the midst of Jackson’s extraordinary journey, his mother, Megan Belden, imparts words of wisdom to other special needs parents. She encourages them to let go of conventional milestones and timelines, emphasizing that each child’s progress unfolds in a unique way and time.

Megan’s advice is a testament to her belief in the power of patience and acceptance. She reminds parents that, despite the challenges, everything will come in due course. Jackson’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the beauty of embracing individuality. It’s a reminder that, with unwavering love and support, every child can blossom into their fullest potential.

Megan’s journey with Jackson has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. She emphasizes that letting go of societal expectations and allowing children to be themselves is essential for their growth and happiness. In her words, “Try to let go of all the milestones and the ages these should be hit. Everything will come in time, it just might not be the typical timeline of most children, and that’s okay.”

Megan’s unwavering support and belief in her son have been pivotal in his journey. She has learned to celebrate every achievement, no matter how small, and to focus on Jackson’s unique strengths and abilities. Megan’s advice to parents of special needs children is a reminder that love, patience, and acceptance are the keys to helping children like Jackson reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.