Elliot’s Story: How Empathy is Built Through Connection

Elliot’s presence in my childhood not only shaped who I am but also taught me one of life’s most profound lessons: true empathy comes from connection, not pity. Growing up alongside Elliot, I learned that understanding someone’s experiences—really seeing their humanity—requires stepping into their world, even when it’s different from your own.

Elliot had his quirks, his unique way of interacting with the world, and his challenges. But what struck me most was how similar we were despite our differences. We both loved playing outside, exploring the neighborhood, and creating little adventures that only kids can. My younger brother, Matthew, often joined us, and Elliot’s nickname for him, “Matchew,” became a cherished part of our family vocabulary. These moments reminded me that people with disabilities aren’t defined by what they can’t do but by the fullness of who they are.

The Power of Everyday Interactions

Elliot’s story isn’t just about him—it’s about what happens when people with disabilities are fully included in everyday life. Those summer afternoons playing tag, riding bikes, or just sitting in the shade weren’t just childhood memories; they were lessons in empathy. Through Elliot, I learned:

• Patience: Communicating with Elliot sometimes took extra effort, but it taught me to slow down and truly listen, an invaluable skill in all relationships.
• Perspective: Elliot approached the world with a sense of trust and simplicity that challenged me to let go of judgment and embrace curiosity.
• Advocacy: Protecting Elliot from bullies wasn’t just about standing up for him—it was about standing up for a principle: everyone deserves respect.

These lessons didn’t just make me a better friend; they made me a better person. And they taught me that interacting with people with disabilities isn’t about charity—it’s about mutual growth. Elliot gave as much to me as I ever gave to him.

How Empathy Takes Root

Empathy isn’t something that can be taught in a lecture or training. It grows in the small, everyday interactions that challenge our assumptions and expand our worldview. Being around Elliot—and later, working with individuals with disabilities as an Occupational Therapy Assistant—has shown me that:

• Exposure is Key: The more time we spend with people who experience the world differently, the more we understand their challenges and joys.
• Shared Experiences Break Barriers: Playing, working, or even just talking with someone creates a connection that transcends labels.
• Empathy Drives Inclusion: Once you truly see someone’s humanity, it’s impossible to ignore the barriers they face—and it motivates you to create change.

Bringing It Full Circle

Today, I carry Elliot’s lessons with me in every facet of my work. Whether I’m teaching adaptive swim lessons, designing inclusive programs, or advocating for systemic change, I draw on the empathy he inspired in me. Interactions with people with disabilities have shown me the beauty of inclusion—not just for the individual but for the entire community.

Empathy starts with connection. It starts with seeing people like Elliot for who they are—not as labels or limitations, but as friends, neighbors, and equals. And as those connections grow, so does our capacity to create a world where everyone belongs.

Maybe one day I’ll sit down with Elliot and tell him just how much he taught me about empathy and inclusion. For now, I hope his story inspires others to step outside their comfort zones, connect with someone new, and discover the transformative power of shared humanity.