International Articles
Jim Warren and his son Erik
One Father's "Field of Dreams"
Part Two of a Two-Part article
By Bonnie Brady
On the Kansas prairie where Native Americans once
searched for herds of buffalo and where wagon trains
rolled out of Fort Hays in search of a path through the great
Rocky Mountains, there is a piece of land that holds the
promise that one man has for his sons. This is the story of
his personal "field of dreams."
Jim Warren uses a tongue-in-cheek
colloquial expression to describe his
determination to provide a secure future
for his sons -- I ain't got no give up. If
what he has already done for his sons is
any indication, he will manage to bring
his "field of dreams" to fruition.
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This article appeared in the Summer 2009 issue of Autism Spectrum Quarterly.
It is reprinted here by permission of Autism Spectrum Quarterly.
Erik on the scroll saw
Crafting A Secure Future: One Day At A Time
Part One of a Two-Part article
By Bonnie Brady
Stopping by to see Jim Warren is a little bit like taking a hike into the Grand Canyon. It's enjoyable, colorful,
inspiring, and you must carry out what you carry in. Jim's 37 year old son, Erik, has autism. He is extremely observant
and focused on maintaining order in his environment. You won't forget your keys, sunglasses, or any other
personal items, because when it's time to say goodbye, Erik will make certain that all of your possessions leave with
you. If his brother, 39 year old Jason, is around, you'll also not leave without taking along the memory of a happy
smile and at least one big hug. Jason has Williams Syndrome and possesses all of the sociability that Erik is unable
to display.
The Warren Family may be atypical in some ways, but they're very much like many families in all of the important
ways. They spend quality time together; they love and care for each other; and they share common goals
for the future. In addition, they're all involved in making Erik's Originals and WonderPaper by Jason successful
businesses that contribute to the future financial security of both young men.
Click here to read the full article
This article appeared in the Spring 2009 issue of Autism Spectrum Quarterly.
It is reprinted here by permission of Autism Spectrum Quarterly.
Erik Warren works on a scroll saw project. Despite having autistim, Erik
has his own scrolling business.
Scrolling Out a Future:
Dedicated Dad creates scroll saw businesses for handicapped
sons
By Kathleen Ryan
When the Warrens discovered that both of their sons were significantly
handicapped, they became all the more determined to give them lots of love and
help them reach their fullest potentials. They have succeeded on both counts.
Today, 36-year-old Erik (with autism) and 39-year-old Jason (with
Williams Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder) each work in a scroll
saw-related business. These businesses not only keep the boys happy, but they
help ensure a productive life for them, should anything happen to Jim Warren,
their dedicated father.
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Story Created: June 26, 2008
Link To Original Story
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