November 2023 Special Needs Living Magazine

A Future Sports Star Introducing you to Antonio Liberatore

BY DEBORAH RILEY • PHOTOS BY JULIAN CURET

2nd grader, Antonio Liberatore, is proof of what happens when you have a fierce advocate in your corner who refuses to accept the status quo. Antonio, who has autism, was non-verbal until he was 6-yearsold. His mother, Susie, refused to accept the feedback from therapists that he would not progress with his language. When she felt that a program was not serving Antonio’s abilities well, she would find another program. Susie recognized the smart boy that Antonio is and pushed for therapies to help him grow and gain skills. Through ABA and therapy, piece by piece things started to come together and when he started school, he was able to increase his communication, social skills, and learn how to make requests.

Susie says, “Parenting with special needs is hard. There is no easy way to do it. Sometimes people will doubt you or your child. You know your child best and if something feels off, it is. I encourage parents to stay up to date as best as they can and to make sure that things are seamless between therapy and school. You are the best advocate for your child. Even during the hard times, stand strong and proud.”

Thanks to Susie continuing to stand strong for her child, he continues to thrive and see growth every day!

Antonio is a busy guy! He stays as involved as he can, participating in Swimming with Autism, the Tallmadge baseball team, and playing basketball and soccer through Empower Sports. Antonio loves to play sports and be a part of the team but needs assistance. The sports programs in which he participates have buddies who are compassionate about helping everyone! His mother feels that it is a blessing to not have to worry about Antonio fitting in or missing out on fun activities. In addition to playing sports, Antonio loves art, Disney, Mickey, Toy Story, and the Buffalo Bills. Recently, Antonio went to Legoland where he was able to tell his family “Big fun rides at Legoland”. He then told his family that he wanted to go on a special trip and they are already working on the plans. In addition, Antonio also currently attends Julie Billiart School where he is also thriving.

Susie is so appreciative of the community and resources available for Antonio. Over the years they have been able to take advantage of programs and tools from the Autism Society, Summit DD, the Autism Scholarship, and ACE Scholarship. These are ways for parents and kids to meet one another and learn from each other as well as find financial resources. Susie encourages parents to get as involved as they can. As Antonio gets older, he is developing friendships that have led to the parents creating friendships as well. Susie is thankful for her village and encourages people to find theirs.

A very important part of Antonio’s village is his Grandma and Grandpa. His grandparents have been there since day one. They have learned all they can about autism and have helped find activities for him. Antonio loves his grandparents very much and Facetimes with them often. He always looks forward to spending time with them and never wants to leave their house! His grandparents have also been vital in helping him learn to talk and spell. His grandpa just recently taught Antonio to spell his last name and he’s really got it nailed down! He knows grandma will do just about anything for him. He has such a special bond with them!

Antonio’s success and growth are a testament to his family’s support and advocacy. By not accepting the prognosis given and pushing for more, Antonio has been able to exceed all expectations and he is nowhere near how far he’ll go!