How Gymnastics Changed the Life of a Young Boy With Nonverbal Autism

Jill Powell was initially apprehensive and skeptical about enrolling her son Drake, who has nonverbal autism, in a gymnastics and tumbling course. Now, she regards it as one of the best decisions she could have made.

Jill told her story to the Love What Matters Facebook page and shared images of Drake and his gymnastics coach, Brodie. In the post, she said, "They have their own form of communication and Drake has grown by leaps and bounds since beginning tumbling with Brodie." The proud mom also noticed a change in Drake's confidence. "Drake feels confident because of the praise he receives from Brodie during their lessons. In addition to his confidence, his imitation skills and physical strength have improved."

Similarly, Jill was also impressed by Brodie's willingness to work with a child with autism. "Only selfless, amazing individuals can do this," she said. Read her full touching account in the Facebook post above.