Damarius is an Apraxia Star who has found his voice! Damarius was diagnosed with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) when he was around age 3, and he attended speech therapy 2 to 4 times a week for seven years. He graduated from speech at age 9. He is now 12 and has encouraging words and advice for others who have a speech disorder.

Meet Amber and her Apraxia Star, Damarius, as they share a very heartfelt message of hope together.

Amber Echols is a writer, poet, as well as a literacy and speech advocate.  She continues to push forward each day to make sure her child and other children like him receive the support they deserve.  Amber shared a beautiful poem she wrote reminding us of how to practice kindness, compassion, and love.

HOPE WITHIN THEIR VOICES
by: Author & Poetess Amber Echols

They are strong, they are unique, and they are bright

Knowing exactly what they want to say,
But most of the time it just doesn’t come out right

Let them express themselves and their thoughts
Take the time to learn who they are and how they
Communicate with us

They try really hard to make movements
With their mouths to say many sounds and words

Sometimes their frustrations come from being
Misunderstood because they can’t say what they
Really want

You can be a great supporter,
By being patient, being
Kind and by being a great listener

While also encouraging them to stay positive,
Keep practicing, and to always have Hope

Hope gives them strength,
And hope helps them to believe

Imagine the hope and the happiness they feel
When they see and hear their parents
After they’ve spoken a new word

Yes, learning to say a new word means so much to All of us

So, through it all remember to help speak hope into their voices.

Be inspired by more stories today and learn about how you can Give Hope!

Visit, FIND HOPE, GIVE HOPE