Nothing Will Stop Me
Seventeen year-old Nathan has autism and finds that a picture can tell its own story – he has used his photo story to show what it’s like being in foster care with an invisible disability. Having been left by his parents, he struggles to trust people and suffers from anxiety and finds change difficult.
Nathan has faced many challenges in his life. Only young when he entered the care system, it led to an anxiety that he still battles, attachment disorder and trust issues. He signed up for his DofE because he was determined not to allow these challenges to hold him back, he was determined to conquer his fears.
His autism and ADHD made Nathan a target for school bullies at a previous school several years ago, so one of his main aims in taking on the awards was to build up his confidence, improve his social skills and meet new people. The expedition was his favourite part of DofE, he loved camping and working with others as part of a team and found being in the outdoors was a calming experience.
Nathan works hard to control his emotions, particularly his anger. Fire represents his anger.
Nathan works hard to control his emotions, particularly his anger. Fire represents his anger.
Tiff, Nathan's one-to-one worker, helps him out with many different things.
Tiff, Nathan's one-to-one worker, helps him out with many different things.
Nathan worked at a farm school which helped him gain his Level 2 Qualification in animal care.
Nathan worked at a farm school which helped him gain his Level 2 Qualification in animal care.
The sensory nature of snakes and other reptiles help calm Nathan.
The sensory nature of snakes and other reptiles help calm Nathan.
Floyd sits by Nathan's side which helps to calm him down.
Nature has a calming influence on Nathan.
Nathan enjoys the outdoor learning he does at his college the most. It was here that he was persuaded to sign up to do his DofE.
Nathan loves walking and finds horses calming.
Nathan's friend supports him during tough times.
Friends taking part in activities put on by Blue Sky Fostering.
“I find pictures inspiring, and I hope the pictures I make on the course will inspire others. I hope my work can give them courage, help them open up and trust people.”
Another of
Nathan's
supportive friends.
Her mum helps
Nathan deal with
his temper.
Another of Nathan's supportive friends. Her mum helps Nathan to deal with his temper.
Tarah, Nathan's foster mum, has helped give Nathan stability in his life.
The road signifies Nathan's journey and that, no matter what, he will keep going.
The sunset signifies Nathan's mood. When he gets annoyed, his world becomes dark.
Nathan feels his life is a bit like the path through the forest, showing how he came from a dark place to the light he has in his life now.
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