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Article posted: 12/6/2012 4:40 AM

Dickens experience a victory of sorts

I’d like to thank the village of West Dundee and the volunteers who made Dickens in Dundee a warm, welcome and fun experience for both me and my aunt. When I was a little girl, my dad called me “Dickens,” as my quirky and sensitive actions resembled those of Charles Dickens’ young characters.

I am sure I turned a few heads with my big, black earmuffs atop my head as I strolled through Grafelman Park feeding goats and taking pictures and riding on the carriage with my aunt. What they don’t know is this modern day “Dickens,” all grown up now, endured years of medical intervention, developed self-ingenuity and is backed by a supportive family. These components made it possible for a woman with autism to partake in an event that not too long ago would not have been possible due to high sensory stimulation and inability to process it.

I will never forget this wonderful day — a benchmark and a blessing.

Allison M. Kramer

Carpentersville

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