Faces, Voices and Lives at May

Faces, Voices, and Lives at May Institute

During our 60th anniversary in 2015, we introduced a multi-media initiative called “Faces. Voices. Lives. – 60 Years at May Institute.” Since that time, we have continued sharing the stories and perspectives of people whose lives have impacted, and been impacted by, May Institute. Among them are past and current families and individuals served, employees, donors, board members, community members, and others from around the country. The initiative includes video interviews, photography, art, written stories and testimonials, and other mediums.

We continue to share these faces, voices, and lives to celebrate the individuals who form our extended community. We welcome to contact us to share your stories and memories as well, and hope you enjoy these glimpses into the lives of so many people who shape May Institute.

Alex Tempel

"When I think about Alex, I think he really might be the sweetest person I've ever met." – Cheryl, Alex’s Mother

Presley & Marshall

"It brings out my best angels, when I’m around people with special needs.”

Stanley

Stanley has been with May for years, and his dream was to "retire" to Cape Cod. This is about his journey home.

Julian

Julian is a wonderful shy young man coming into his own. He courageously attended his IEP meeting, filled with strangers, and spoke up for himself.

A Tribute to Henry and Verna

“Love means something different to everyone. For Henry and Verna, they just knew that they liked each other, and they liked to spend time together. And that was enough for them.”

Laura Previlar

It didn't take long for Laura to realize that it was the work environment she had always wanted for herself. Helping students achieve milestones on a daily basis became her motivation.

Owen and Benny

Brothers Owen and Benny celebrated their graduation from one of our May Centers for ABA recently.

Margo (and Peter)

Margo runs the Falmouth Road Race for a lot of reasons, but her brother Peter is the biggest reason.

Chris

Caring for Chris, A Father’s Love for His Son

Josh

After two years of hard work at our center-based program, Josh transitioned to an inclusion kindergarten classroom.

Kyle

Kyle continues to work on goals, like socializing with the other residents and participating in Special Olympics.

Christian

We were thrilled that Christian would continue to learn and become more independent.

Gage

ABC World News Features Brockton Student in "America Strong" Segment [11/19/18]

Amaya

Two things everyone learns quickly about Amaya: she is very social, and she loves to sing.

Kevin

Kevin's life spans the chasm between the dark days of institutionalization and a much more enlightened future.

Sabrina and Marcus

The support of the May team is unwavering, enthusiastic, and compassionate.

Brian

When a child is diagnosed with a developmental disability, a parent is never sure where the path will lead.

Elijah

Typically developing children learn different things at school and at home. There are synergies between the two environments and a natural generalization of skills.

Anna

Anna's concerned family looked for help and services from as far away as the Netherlands to as close as her home state of Arkansas.

Yolanda

What happens when you are homeless and raising children with autism?

Jennel

Change is always challenging, but for some change can be nearly out of reach.

Nick

The first time we meet someone with autism, it suddenly becomes personal. We don’t meet the disease — we meet the person.

Daniel

I was always told by my family and friends that a miracle can happen.

Michael

It’s been hard, as he is changing with the Alzheimer’s. But no matter what, Mike will always be my special little brother.

Robert B. Whittlesey

For nearly 40 years, Bob has helped May Institute navigate its way.

Marie Anne May

In 1947, the twin sons of Dr. Jacques May and his wife Marie Anne were diagnosed with autism.

Markehan Littles

Markehan is the epitome of the kind of person you would want to have advocating for your family member.

Blake

We’re not sure if he fully understands what that means, but he won’t let that stop him from dreaming like any other child.

Nick

Mimi, I wish this school was here for me years ago. I am learning like I knew I could.

Barry Sloane

“It’s one of the most fulfilling parts of our world here, helping organizations like May Institute prosper and be well-financed."

Hannah

“We’ve realized that optimism is the only way to approach things when you’re raising a child.”

Taylor

Anything is possible with the proper drive and motivation. I proved that.

Alan Anselmi

Being able to help other people understand how their own bodies move… that was it. That’s what I wanted to do!

Ty

Life takes all of us through a series of transitions. Change can be exciting, it can be challenging – often it is both.

Jalisa

Like most teenage girls, Jalisa has crushes on boys, and loves to dress up and to dance.

Brandon

No one was talking about autism back then, so I had no reference point.

Declan

I try to fit in and be as normal as I can, but I don’t think the main goal in life is to strive for normality.

Mikey

Without this school and the progress Mikey has made there, I just don’t know what his life would be like, what our life would be like.

Sokha

Sokha’s mother is tremendously grateful for every opportunity this country has given her family.

Ashley

Seeing Ashley have the poise and grace to walk down the aisle with her brother was truly a special moment.

Steve Peck

I've always been taught since I was a kid?—?old style, my parents being World War ? veterans?—?to give back.

Terese Brennan

What I anticipated would be a two-year commitment has turned into a career and life experience for me.

Verna and Henry

Verna and Henry are each other’s best friends and companions.

Jaxson and John

I have hope that both my boys will go to high school and college, have friends, get married, and have jobs and homes of their own.

Dr. Amira Al Raaidan

I hope that we can empower the Omani people and improve the quality of life for these Omani autistic children and their families.

Matthew & Michael

The first time Matthew does it or the second time or the third time he does it, those are ALL wins.

Brooke

I’ve learned that children with autism aren’t so different from my own ‘typical’ children.

Gabe

How do you harness a rocket? Impossible, right?

Jaimie March

The bond I feel to the kids, the staff, and the school is challenging to put into words.

Kyle

Like many siblings, Kyle and Maggie have a special bond. Growing up, they shared typical family experiences.

Nancy

For her 86th birthday, Nancy wanted apple pie. And a new red dress.

Michelle

Michelle has autism, and she has proven every educated guess wrong.

Isaac

I feel like every person in this world deserves to have a special day that is just about them.

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