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The Ostrowsky family has been an Operation House Call (OHC) host family for almost two years. They have a busy household! Dave and Lauren have two children with autism, who are, as Lauren shares, “on complete opposite ends of the spectrum.”
Colby is 11 years old, is nonverbal, and has an intellectual disability and other co-occurring disorders. She goes to school at The New England Center for Children. Her younger brother Camden is three years old, “very verbal,” and is in the Natick preschool program. Both Colby and Camden also get home-based therapy after school.
Lauren had this to share about the family’s experiences hosting students for OHC: “It makes me so happy to share about our family [with the students], but also to see how amazing and receptive they all are. It feels so rewarding every time. I always try to emphasize the importance of listening to the parents who are advocating for their children when they can’t speak for themselves, and the importance of being flexible and patient with each kid’s needs.”
When students meet the Ostrowsky family, they learn about love, advocacy, and resilience. They also get first-hand experience in how every individual with autism is unique, with their own set of interests, strengths, and challenges. We are so grateful they are a part of our dedicated and generous host family network!
If you would like to learn more about becoming a host family, please reach out to Ashley Waring, OHC Family Engagement Director, at awaring@arcmass.org.
