In September 2009, I traveled to Cusco, Peru for an academic internship to complete my Health Education degree at Georgia College. I knew that I would be working with special needs children, but the extent to which I was utilized was a game-changer. I was immediately thrown into a class for multiple and severe disabilities, and drawn to the sweet kids with autism that were "lost causes." I took especially to one child, Vivian, who had severe behaviors, like self-injurious behavior and constant self-stimulation. While I had no experience in autism education, I was aware that something was up. I found out later that some of her aggression stemmed from her poverty. Her shoes, for example, were three sizes too small! I would hit my head against a wall too. I bought Vivian new shoes; which immediately altered some of her alarming behaviors and started a bit of a phenomenon.
When I told my Mom this story via skype, she suggested we get shoes for some of the other kids too. Cusco is enveloped in poverty. While the city center is a gorgeous tourist destination, it resides in a valley that, at its core, resonates a deep poverty and constant conflict. My mom and best friend began campaigning for the project in the states. We called it "Soles for Soles," a play on the Peruvian currency (the Nuevo Sol) and shoes, of course! (Turns out there are like, 8 organizations with this name. Oops.) Through some awesome friends, family, and strangers, we were able to purchase shoes for 72 of the children!
My first trip to Cusco blew me away, and I knew that when I returned stateside I wouldn't be able to shake its effect. I began a fellowship program for autism education just one month after my return. I have become an expert in my field-- always learning and growing-- but knowledgeable and confident in the field of autism.
We've since fundraised independently, raising money for medication, socks, and travel. I returned to Cuzco in July 2010 to train teachers and work with the parents of Vivian, Shakira, and Arturo.
We've since fundraised independently, raising money for medication, socks, and travel. I returned to Cuzco in July 2010 to train teachers and work with the parents of Vivian, Shakira, and Arturo.
I came on board with the Global Autism Project in December of 2011, just in time to have access to amazing resources and a brilliant director while I was in Cuzco for my third trip. Officially, I am the Peru Outreach Coordinator, and am liaison to all things Cusquenan. We are so looking forward to edifying both Lima and Cuzco with stellar ABA training and advocacy events. Look for more information on our plans for April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day!
I am currently in Marietta, still working on my Master's while teaching middle school special education.
"Cusco Costello" is intended for story telling, and brain storming.
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