Leah Kelly is a graduate from the 2002 Child and Youth Care class at the Grant McEwan Community College in Edmonton, Alberta. She is working part-time in the field with an autistic consultant. "As I was in the middle of a project I came across this poem ..."

I am a resident
     ... You reside.
I am admitted
     ... You just are.
You are rude ... I am compliant
     ... You don't like to be told what to do.
When I get asked out to dinner it is an outing
     ... When someone asks you out it is a date.
I don't know how many people have read the progress notes people write about me — I don't even know what's in there
     ... You didn't speak to your best friend for a month after she read your journal.
I make mistakes in my cheque writing program
     ... someday I might get to have a bank account.
You forget to record withdrawals from your account
     ... the bank manager calls to remind you.
I celebrated my birthday yesterday
     ... with 5 other residents and 2 staff.
I hope my family sends me a card
     ... Your family throws you a surprise party.
I am on a diet because I am 5 pounds over my ideal weight
     ... Your doctor gave up telling you.
I am learning household skills
     ... You hate housework.
I am learning leisure skills
     ... Your shirt says you're a "Couch Potato"
My case manager and other professionals set goals for me
     ... You haven't decided what you want out of life.
Someday I'll be discharged maybe
     ... While you move upwards, and onwards ...

By Elaine Popawich