Two volunteers at Casa Harului

One dad came to the camp with his twin 9 year old daughters who both had autism and some behavioural difficulties. The mother followed 2 days later with their other child, a son. Both parents were worn out by the caring. The twins were very hyperactive at home, doors had to be locked in case they broke things and they felt that they had no friends. The mother had threatened to walk out just before the camp. 

They had constantly called to God and felt he had not listened to their plight. We talked to them individually and as a couple about putting boundaries in place, having a consistency of approach and not showing fear. Each day got a little better as the girls developed a routine and their brother enjoyed playing with the other siblings who had come to the camp, and we also encouraged him to join in some games with his sisters. 

At one of the parent classes the father asked to speak. He said that he wanted to thank God for his children...  he had come to the camp angry that his daughters were disabled, but on the camp he had met children with far greater disabilities and needs. He had started to put into practice what we were teaching and had seen results. 

His daughters were now happy to sit and eat. They would stop the games and change the activity when asked. But most of all as a family they had been shown such love. We had never criticised his lack of faith but rather had understanding. 

The next day he was up bright and early for prayers. He contributed a prayer and then asked God into his life. We continue to pray for his wife to come to faith. 

They left the camp calm and happy. 

For the first time for some years they had decided to take the children for a treat before catching the train a visit to the local castle followed by McDonalds.