Little Alexx Blog

The one person I care about in this world more than anything, is my little baby brother, Dimitri. As some know, he is our walking and talking miracle baby. Dimitri had a stroke in my mother at 36 weeks and has ADHD, epilepsy, autism, and cerebral palsy. Not only does he have problems controlling his words and lack of attention span, but he also suffers physically and mentally. Every time he has a seizure, he loses his ability to remember how to do simple things that ‘normal’ 12 year little boys should do, such as simple math, reading, and tying his shoes. The left side of his body, (eyes and arm) has suffered due to his stroke and many seizure, causing him to not be able to use them fully. He goes to occupational and physical therapy during the week, which is hard for someone with ADHD. His mental and intellectual side has slowly deteriorated in the past few years, causing his IQ to drop from an average person’s IQ of 100, to now down to 59, classifying him as intellectually disabled. Before Obama signed legislation in 2010 requiring the federal government to change words and phrases, the term most commonly used for others with low IQ’s such as Dimitri would be MR, or mental retardation.

This being said, seeing him, you would never think he had all these problems. The majority of mental and some physical disabilities are not so easily seen. Dimitri is not only one of the smartest kids I have ever met, but he is also the sweetest. He loves and feels with his whole heart, and because of his lack of understanding things fully, he is still extremely child-like in his actions. He loves cheese, Gatorade, Legos, any and all country music, his cowboy boots, and his Rubix cube. He loves our little kitten and can be seen during all times of the day rocking her like a baby on the front porch swing, (bless the patience of that cat), and playing outside in the rain, snow, or sunshine. When I call my mom, he is always screaming in the background wanting to say hi to me and is VERY protective about his family. If you don’t know Dimitri, you are missing out. While totally crazy and loud and energy filled, he is truly a blessing in not only my life, but the lives of everyone he comes into contact with. I know that when my parents are gone, Dimitri will live with me, and I am thankful that the friends and family I surround myself are patient with him and love him as much as I do. I am so blessed to have this sweet little boy in my life who I get to call my baby brother.

A word about terminology. While we are constantly being told that certain words aren’t PC (politically correct) to say anymore, we must be mindful as to why we have these unspoken rules. It is to make others more comfortable and to not offend. If I hear someone say the R word (retarded), I will correct them. Some just don’t understand how hurtful it can be, while others just don’t seem to care. While you use that word to describe something or someone as dumb or stupid, I take offense because you are using that word that describes what my brother is, in a very very negative way. Please be mindful of the words you use, because while someone may not look a certain way, we truly don’t know the history and background in which that person has went and is still going through. Do all with love in your heart, mind and being. 

I got the awesome opportunity yesterday to speak about culture and diversity in honor of the 70th anniversary of Silas Hunt, first African American law student at the University and more importantly, the first African American student to be admitted to a graduate or professional studies at any all-white university, on 40/29V TV channel. Click the link to watch!

U of A Commemorates 70th Anniversary of First Black Law Student

Stay warm, and get excited guys, because next week is one of my favorite holidays and I have some big surprises for you!!! Keep updated with all that is going on with me and my blog by hitting the follow button, adding me on Instagram, and keeping in touch. I love hearing from you!

Music this week is just a sweet little song. Enjoy x

Today’s Mantra:

“I AM releasing blame and judgement. I AM embracing forgiveness and love.”

Let your heart grow warm and love deeply. Thrive to become better on the daily.

blessings, a