High School Teacher Takes In Former Student With Special Needs Found Wandering Down Highway Alone

Oct 12, 2020

People with special needs require a little more assistance in order to live a normal life. Without someone to care for them, they may find themselves in a position where they could get hurt. This was the situation for Chris Barrington, but thankfully a friend from his past was able to get him the help and love he needed when she volunteered to become his guardian.

The police in Waco, Texas, received a call regarding a man who appeared to be disoriented and wandering alone on a busy highway back in June 2019. He had been seen doing this for two whole days before they were called.

His level of thinking was of a 6-year-old, and it was a bit difficult for the police to find out exactly where he lived. His father had leukemia at the time and was bedridden. Chris did not have any other family members he could call on for help. According to KWTX, eventually, he remembered the name of someone from his past that might be able to help. “Michelle Girard,” he said.

Michelle Girard was Chris’ junior high school teacher. During the course of four years, she was able to teach him in a way that helped him do well in school. This must have made a huge impact on him because her name was the first to pop into his head when he needed help. They have not spoken to one another in years and she had retired from her profession. 

After some investigation, the police were able to locate and call her to explain what was going on with Chris. Thankfully she remembered him and, based on his situation, knew what would happen if she did not step in. Since Chris’ father was not able to take care of him, he would either have to go to a group home or an institution. Because he requires special attention, he would be placed where his needs would be met.

After realizing what was in store for Chris, Michelle decided to take care of him herself. His father passed away a few months later and she is now in the process of becoming his legal guardian. Michelle found out that Chris had never celebrated his birthday, enjoyed a Thanksgiving feast, or participated in a Christmas party, reports KWTX. Realizing all of this, she decided that this year would be the first of many for him.

In the video, you can see how well they get along with one another and how happy he is with the situation. He received presents, had a nice time socializing, and enjoyed eating some good food.

Towards the end of the video, you can see him and Michelle in a small boat, as if they were about to go canoeing. This may also have been something he has never experienced before.

Teachers tend to be the beacon of hope for a lot of kids. Some have a nurturing spirit that extends beyond the classroom. Thankfully, Michelle was that one shining light that Chris needed at this time of his life.

Do you know someone who has been in a similar situation? What do you think about this story? Post your comments below. Let your friends and family read this story so they can express their feelings, too.