Cameron is a neurodivergent teenager who has grown up in Lake Highlands for the past fifteen years. He loves riding his bike, reading, and spending time swinging in the front yard with a book - often The Bible or a favorite children’s story. What might make most of us dizzy, like swinging for long stretches, brings Cameron a sense of calm.

Like many individuals on the autism spectrum, Cameron experiences the world differently. Bright sunlight can be overwhelming, so he wears transitional lenses to help. Loud sounds can be difficult, which is why noise-canceling headphones are often close by. Cameron thrives on routine and structure, and changes to his schedule can be challenging. With years of therapy and support, he continues to build skills that help him navigate those moments.

Cameron’s journey began with challenges even before he was born. During pregnancy, doctors discovered he had a rare heart condition called Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (PAPVR), which affects blood flow through the heart. When Cameron was just a baby, his parents spent Thanksgiving of 2010 in the hospital as he underwent open-heart surgery. After six long hours, surgeons successfully repaired his heart - a moment his parents describe with overwhelming gratitude and relief.

Once Cameron recovered, something remarkable happened. With healthy blood flow restored, the once quiet baby quickly became an energetic toddler eager to explore the world around him.

A few years later, Cameron began experiencing seizures, at one point as many as 60 per hour. With treatment and support from family, doctors, and therapists, those seizures came under control, and Cameron was able to begin school.

After several years and many evaluations, Cameron was diagnosed with autism. His parents eventually found the right environment for him at The Notre Dame School of Dallas, where Cameron not only learns academics but also important life skills like making his bed, preparing simple meals, and building independence. He even has an internship with Young Life, helping clean their office.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Cameron is known for something that stands out immediately: his affection and kindness. Years of love and care from family and friends have shaped a teenager who genuinely enjoys connecting with others. He especially loves babies and is quick to offer hugs.

As Cameron grows and explores his independence, he continues learning about boundaries and safety - like remembering stop signs or staying within certain bike routes. Thankfully, Lake Highlands is the kind of community where neighbors look out for one another. Many people recognize Cameron and will kindly check in if he seems a little lost or rides too far from home.

April is Neurodiversity Celebration Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the unique ways people experience the world. Cameron is a wonderful reminder that every neighbor has a story - and that kindness, patience, and understanding make our community stronger.

So if you see Cameron riding his green bike through the neighborhood or swinging with a book in the yard, don’t hesitate to give him a wave and say hello. He may not always respond, but his parents will tell you - he remembers, and your kindness means more than you might know.