SPECIAL NEEDS PROM

Jessica’s first prom experience was at the school for the blind in April 2004. To make it really special, my sister and I went and stayed at a nearby bed and breakfast, then picked up Jessica to spend the day with us and get her ready. It was a very special time for the three of us.

As it probably happens with many prom experiences, the most fun part was getting ready. Here are some photos from that special day.

PROM 10, good full length — Even though Jess had a fear of them, she was fascinated by dogs.

PROM 8, top of hair — Styling Jessica’s hair to be ‘cute’ was a challenge. We had cut it short for easier management after she moved into the school.

PROM 11, J petting concrete dog — Petting the ‘dog’

CUTE shoes for Jess. She has always loved to wear “Sunday’s” and listen to them “click” as she walked.

PROM 3, in garden of 1842 INN — On the patio at the B&B

PROM 7, good smile — Pretty smile – she was tolerant with us while we had a good time 🙂

PROM 18, J & her Aunt waiting — With Aunt Alison back at the cottage, waiting on the time to arrive to head to the prom.

The prom was held off campus, about a 20 minute drive away. Jessica’s date had been pre-arranged (wait… let me rephrase… someone had ‘asked’ Jess to the prom and someone else had said ‘yes’ for Jess.)

I went to the prom with Jess. Not my kind of thing, it made me quite uncomfortable (and I guess I fought my fight or flight instinct.) As far as Jessica’s enjoyment… eh… it was okay. But she was not interested in hanging out with her ‘date’ but wanted to visit with some other people. She end up getting fussed at about it because apparently it was going to ruin her date’s prom night. On the bright side, I guess this was not so far from ‘normal’ either.

Even though I was so glad when it was over (and Jess probably was too), I was also very thankful that Jess and I got to experience the whole event. It was something that I had not been sure that she would ever get to do.