He is friendly with everyone he meets and has a big personality to match his big heart. Ethan loves dogs, especially his dog Stitch, and his cats Percy and Syrinx. He is a huge Sonic the Hedgehog fan, loves his Sonic-themed bedroom, and can usually be found watching movies, playing on his iPad, or spending time with family and friends. One thing to know about Ethan right away is that he does not like goodbyes and he definitely does not like being talked to like a baby. Ethan knows who he is and wants to be treated that way.
Before coming to Circle of Friends, Ethan attended a local elementary school, but his family quickly realized that the environment was not meeting his needs. His mom, Tara, was even preparing to homeschool him when she learned about Circle of Friends. Ethan has Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy, and since enrolling at Circle of Friends, his medical needs have increased, including acquiring a trach. What has not changed is his love for school. Ethan is excited to attend each day and looks forward to seeing his friends.
Circle of Friends has been a lifeline for Ethan and his family, especially during hospital stays. Tara shares that the school community has been absolutely critical during some of their hardest moments. Ethan has found friends who understand him, and those friendships have followed him even into the hospital, with classmates coming to visit and show support.
At Circle of Friends, Ethan is encouraged to be fully himself. He has learned to use a reverse walker and a trike, both of which he loves. He spends time outside whenever possible, often going for walks in his wheelchair, and is supported in ways that honor both his independence and his dignity.
Ethan is the youngest of five children and is surrounded by a deeply loving family. Two of his older siblings, Bradley and Emily, help care for him, and his two-year-old niece is his best friend. Ethan’s story is a powerful reminder of why Circle of Friends exists. Every student deserves to feel safe, valued, and understood, and every family deserves a community that shows up when it matters most.