When Micah’s older brother Ben was a little boy, he was passionate about basketball. He loved everything about the game and played with friends as well as on the local teams. He had photos of basketball players on his wall and once wrote in a school essay that he wished Michael Jordan was his brother. Alas, Ben grew older and had, in my opinion, one bad coach after which Ben decided that he no longer wanted to play competitively, even though he had shown aptitude for the sport.
Micah has never played sports; although he has an athlete’s physique, it has been a struggle to channel his strength and endurance for any activities besides hiking and swimming. When Micah’s new direct support staff member, Jonathan suggested taking Micah to play basketball at the YMCA, I tried to be supportive, basically stating something to the effect that it was worth trying, but I certainly did not have high hopes; in fact, I thought it would be a short project. Much to my surprise, Jonathan began reporting that Micah liked to play basketball and was doing well. Jonathan tends to be a “cup half full person”, so I assumed his enthusiasm was based more on his optimism than actual skill on Micah’s part. Then Jonathan began sending me videos.
I could not believe what I was seeing.
In video after video, Micah was shooting and making baskets. His form was not professional, but the videos clearly show him making baskets with what appears to be minimal effort on his part. This is especially astounding as, due to Apraxia, Micah often has trouble getting his body to do the basic things he wants to do. The videos remind me of younger Ben, when he seemed to effortlessly hurl the ball and make shots that seemed unlikely to go through.
As hard as it was for Micah to adjust to a new direct support staff, it is a blessing to see how Jonathan has brought this unexpected skill into the light. Watching Micah’s expressions when others watch the videos and praise his talent has been an extra treat. He clearly likes the fact that others recognize that he has had this hidden talent. It is another reminder of how we have learned how very bright he is through Spelling to Communicate. It may have taken over thirty years, but Micah continues to surprise us in ways I would have never dreamed possible. Micah will never play basketball professionally, but perhaps his skill is the answer to his brother’s long ago wish for a brother who excelled at the sport he loved.
Jan Lessard Peightell July 15, 2026
