dyslexia awareness month

By Deandra Dycas

Meet the Lawless Family

JULIE, DEREK, ZOE, AND MAX

Hiking in Brown County

It is never easy learning that your child has been diagnosed with a learning difference. In fact, hearing those words can send you on a journey of uncertainty. Although we want to retain a positive perspective, if we’re honest, in those difficult moments, that positive light gives way to a flickering flame. However, we can’t remain that way, and Max’s family exemplifies what it means to show courage in hard times, and to be your child’s biggest advocate.

Derek, Julie, Max, and Zoe Lawless are from the beautiful hills of Nashville, TN, and now reside in Fishers, IN, a northeastern suburb of Indianapolis. The family moved to Indiana in 2014 when Julie accepted a new career opportunity. The family believes it was the best move they could have made. They feel beyond fortunate to have found Fortune Academy, a small school focused solely on supporting children with all types of learning differences, as well as those with ADHD.

Max and Derek Cooking

In early childhood, Max struggled with reading, writing, and managing his ADHD, especially in the classroom. Those struggles with dyslexia and ADHD caused him to fall behind his peers, which led to a decrease in his self-confidence. When the family moved Max from public school to Fortune Academy, they had no idea what a positive impact that would have on Max’s future. His father Derek states, “He now reads and writes with ease.”

Julie and Derek were ecstatic to see how quickly the teaching styles of the Fortune Academy staff cultivated Max’s reading ability. They said it is safe to say that he has gone from dreading reading to having the excitement that they always believed he would have, with the right support in place. Julie shared that there are two milestones in her son’s journey that she will never forget, and both make her look forward to what is to come. The first was the moment when Max read words on the TV screen after only a short time at Fortune. Shocked, he yelled “I can read that on my own now!” Julie’s heart was warmed with hope, and a little surprise as well. Not the kind of surprise that comes from doubting this moment would ever come, but the kind that makes you exhale with gratitude.

The second milestone came when Max was asked to write a letter about someone whom he admired and include why that person was so special. He chose his grandfather, who is affectionately known as “Papa Charlie.” Max had so much excitement for this letter that once it was written he wanted to hand-deliver it and read it aloud to his grandfather. Julie shared that Papa Charlie and Max share similar reading challenges. Papa Charlie could not have been prouder in that moment. The reading of those words was like music to his ears. Max was proud, too. Julie credits the hard work and dedication of the teachers of Fortune Academy not only for the significant changes in her son’s reading abilities but also for his increased confidence.

Walks in the Neighborhood

Chess with Dad

When Julie and Derek were asked what advice they would give to parents in a similar situation, it would be to never stop asking questions. “Reach out to everyone in your community that could possibly be a resource for much-needed tools,” Julie stated. “There is support, but we have to go out and look for it at times. There is an abundance of resources to assist with financial aid, scholarships, and tutors. Don’t be afraid to ask around and tour schools. It could lead to the right answer for your child’s future.”

This family is very active and takes every opportunity to develop themselves as individuals and as a family. Max is involved in fencing, rock climbing, and takes violin lessons. As a family unit, the four of them enjoy nature hikes, watching Zoe play basketball and eating dinner together. It is a tradition that they settle down and eat dinner together every evening. Derek says this is an important time to connect and discuss their day. Collectively they share their highs and lows. They also walk the dog every evening as a family. There is lots of bonding and shows of support, from one to another.

The family has two pets – Johnny, a mixed breed rescue dog, and Tucker, a rescue cat. Derek says both pets are very special to Max and that their family understands the power of healing through pet therapy. Julie serves as the Executive Chair of Pet Partners, the leading pet therapy organization in the U.S.

Max and Johnny

Max and Johnny Ugly Sweater 2021

One of the family’s favorite restaurants is CR Heroes in Fishers. A family-oriented business, they host weekly family nights and give space for children to play in the arcade and just enjoy themselves while they are waiting on their food. Derek shared how important this is when you have a child with ADHD. “Finding restaurants that encourage their movement and freedom are gold!” Derek said.

Xoleth and Max Dinner

Derek, Julie, Zoe, and Max’s energy, love, and support for one another are contagious. They are an ambitious family destined to enjoy life and overcome the obstacles that have been set before them. Their story is inspiring and motivating but, more importantly, it is a testimony to how love motivates parents to be their child’s biggest advocate.

Fortune Academy Award Ceremony 2021

Fortune Academy Awards 2021

Do you have a famliy that you would like to nominate to be in an upcoming issue of Special Needs Living? Email us at SpecialNeedsLivingIndy@n2pub.com.

Please Join Us

In Person Or Virtually!

Wine & Wags Thursday, October 7, 2021 5:30 to 8 pm The Biltwell Event Center Indianapolis

ICAN’s largest fundraising event, Wine & Wags, is an after-work program filled with testimonies about the powerful impact our service dogs make on people’s lives! There is no cost to attend, but you must pre-register. To register in person or virtually, please visit www.icandog.org.

Interested in being a virtual host or hosting a table of eight? Contact dino@icandog.org