Rhiannon's Autism Essay

Rhiannon wrote an essay for a contest to become the Grand Marshal at the Bourbonnais Friendship Festival at the end of June. The topic was, "What I Hope Bourbonnais Will Be Like in 3001." Here is what she wrote:

What I Hope Bourbonnais Will Be Like in the Year 3001
by Rhiannon Stringer
11 years old, Fifth Grade

I hope Bourbonnais will help find a cure for autism, and tell other people about it so they can help with research. The reason why I want this is because my brother, Joey, is autistic. He can’t talk, so he can’t tell us if he is hurt or if he is mad. Now that he is older, he is doing better, and can actually read. But we have to take him all the way to Chicago to see a doctor about his autism. He has to see a special dentist there as well.

I would like it better, if in the year 3001, there would be a place for special needs people in Bourbonnais. I want there to be more doctors, teachers, and friends who understand autism and can help people like Joey.

If all this happens, Bourbonnais will probably be the most successful town in Illinois. That is what I hope Bourbonnais will be like in the year 3001.

Rhiannon won the contest and she will get to ride in a convertible in the parade at the Festival!