The Tatikonda Family Story
Told by Radhika (Mom)
Jill’s House has given Esha new experiences and greater confidence, and it has given our family peace and rest. When we pick her up, she comes out with a big happy smile every time. That smile says everything.
We are a family of four—my husband, my son, my daughter Esha, and me. My husband works in software, and I work for the local school district. Our son is 17 and in high school, and our daughter Esha is 13. Esha has autism and limited speech, but she’s very smart, very happy, and always smiling.
We first heard about Jill’s House from the DDA, the Developmental Disabilities Administration here in Washington State. Before that, we had tried other respite programs in the summer, but they didn’t work for her. When we heard about Jill’s House, we thought, Let’s try one more time.
At first we were afraid—Esha had never been away from us overnight. I made a social story for her so she could understand what camp would be like. I told her, “You’ll stay for two nights, and you’ll have fun.”
When I dropped her off that first weekend, I was nervous, but she had an amazing time. The staff were so kind and welcoming—they greeted her with big smiles and helped her feel comfortable. They texted updates during the weekend and sent a detailed report afterward. When I heard how well she did, I was so proud.
During the week, Esha works so hard. She spends all day at school, takes a short break, and then has three hours of ABA therapy every afternoon. By the time she finishes, it’s already seven o’clock—then dinner, shower, and bedtime. Her days are long and structured, and she gives her best effort. That’s why Jill’s House is such a gift—a time that’s all about fun.
Now Esha goes to Jill’s House Puget Sound every two months, and she loves it. The staff encourage her to try new things—like the zip line. She hasn’t quite done it yet, but each visit she gets a little closer to doing it. Her favorite activity is horseback riding. We never tried that before Jill’s House, but she loved it immediately! Now when we travel and have the opportunity for horseback riding, we know it’s something she’ll enjoy.
She also loves karaoke, music, swimming, and sitting by the campfire. Every time we arrive at camp, she grabs her bag, runs to her room, and starts unpacking! Then she goes straight to dinner.
Last September, Esha celebrated her 13th birthday at camp. I asked if I could send a cake and treats, and the staff said yes. They celebrated with her and sent me photos. When I showed her the pictures later, she smiled so big. Usually we celebrate birthdays at home, but this one was special—her “camp birthday.”
When Esha enjoys her Jill’s House weekends, sometimes the three of us take a short a short trip near camp. Other times we head back home for dinner, movies, and some quiet time. I call it “a break for everyone,” meaning that Esha gets a break from us, too!
The reports the staff send after each weekend are one of my favorite things. They tell us what she enjoyed doing, how she slept, and how they helped if she got upset. Sometimes they share which strategies worked to calm her down, like giving her a short break or taking her outside. Those new ideas help us at home, too!
Esha understands more than people think. Her speech is limited, but she remembers everything she loves. If I say, “Doctor,” she says, “No!” But if I say, “Jill’s House,” she gets excited and starts packing! She repeats her favorite words from the schedule—“campfire, shower, music, horse.”
Jill’s House has given Esha new experiences and confidence, and it has given our family peace and rest. When we pick her up, she comes out with a big happy smile every time. That smile says everything.
