More Than I Ever Imagined

Asaf went on an overnight trip with his cycling group.

To be honest, I didn’t overthink what it would actually mean physically for him. What challenges he might face. I was just so happy that he was going, so focused on the fact that he was part of a group, that I didn’t stop to think about the small—but oh so important—details.

In the afternoon I received pictures of Asaf on a tandem, and he looked so happy.

There was something in his expression that said I’m here, I’m part of this, and it filled me with joy.

Then I saw a photo of the tent....... and my heart sank.

They were sleeping on the floor; on mattresses.

The old Abigail popped up and started questioning, worrying…

How will Asaf manage to sleep like that?

Sitting down on the floor is super challenging for him.

Often his body struggles to follow the clear directions of his mind.

Movements that are automatic for most of us are a real struggle for Asaf.

But then I remembered to breathe, and I told myself: Presume competence.

I let go of the thoughts that would have overwhelmed me in the past, and would have filled me with anxiety.I reminded myself that he’s capable of more than I sometimes believe.

Later I received photos and videos from around the bonfire. Everyone enjoying a BBQ, singing along with a guitar, wrapped in that special kind of togetherness that only happens camping outdoors.

This is an experience Asaf has never had before. He’s never sat around a fire like that, never shared food under the stars, never been part of that simple but powerful feeling of being included in something warm and real.Seeing him there—not on the sidelines, but in it—evoked something deep in me because moments like these, which might seem ordinary to others, are huge for us.They are reminders that Asaf’s world is growing; that the walls we once thought were unbreakable are permeable.

Every photo shouts to me: he belongs.

This journey we’re on—of learning to trust, to let go, to believe in his strength—is not simple. It’s layered with emotion, with fear, and with hope. But here he is, showing me once again that he is ready. That he wants more from life.

I don’t take these moments for granted.

It’s not just the cycling, the bonfire, the photos and videos, but also the incredible people who make this possible.

The volunteers who donate their time to ride and camp with our children are truly special human beings. This isn’t a given—it’s a commitment of heart and effort. They take time out of their own lives, showing up to create opportunities for our children, supporting them not just on the ride but through every challenge and moment of connection.

I’ve come to realize how profoundly meaningful it is for me as well. The joy, the connection, the sense of purpose—it all comes back tenfold. Volunteering gives far more than it asks, and I feel deeply enriched each time I show up.I highly recommend that one should devote an hour of their week to volunteer—it’s a truly rewarding experience, one that brings so much more than you might expect.

Then there’s Dill, Asaf's carer, who has truly embraced him.He is someone who sees Asaf for who he really is, and pushes him in the most loving way. Dill encourages him to try new things, to step out of his comfort zone. He has become a source of constant support for Asaf, urging him, motivating him, and giving him the confidence to try things he would never have attempted before.Dill’s belief in Asaf is contagious, and it's made all the difference in helping Asaf believe in himself.

Asaf CYCLED 25km on a tandem!!!!

Pause and think about that for a moment:

How far is 25km  from your own doorstep?

This is a young man who’s barely done any exercise in his entire life.And here he is—not just managing, but cooperating with the cycling and enjoying it.

THIS IS NOTHING SHORT EXTRAORDINARY  .

A year ago, I would never have believed this was possible.

But today, Asaf is showing me again and again that he’s capable of so much more than I ever imagined.

When asked how he felt about the trip, Asaf typed:

“I really enjoyed myself. We need more trips like this always.”

And when Naama asked if it had been physically challenging for him, he answered:

“I loved the cycling. It releases my soul.”

I don’t take these moments for granted;

Not the cycling.

Not the bonfire.

Not the photos and videos that show a young man quietly rewriting the story others once wrote for him.

A year ago, I couldn’t have imagined this.

Today, I’m learning—moment by moment—to imagine more.

For him.

For us

.For the life that’s unfolding, one brave step at a time.