Maximus
Embedded Files
Leandro Lozada y Leon
Team Cobb
Alexander Maximus, 6, experiences autism, which shapes the way he perceives the world and makes communication challenging. He often struggles to express his feelings and needs, and many sounds and textures can cause discomfort that leads him to experience frustration, anxiety or a sense of being trapped.
Despite these challenges, Alexander is surrounded by a supportive community that helps him grow and thrive. Throughout the week, his grandmother, Christine “Tina” Dwyer, takes him to feeding therapy and horse riding therapy, each playing an important role in his development. In feeding therapy, Alexander learns to tolerate new sensations, building skills that carry into other areas of his life. At horse therapy, he gains confidence and body awareness, improving balance, emotional regulation and social skills.
A highlight of Alexander’s day is visiting the park, where Tina pushes him high and fast on the swings. The soaring motion gives him a sense of independence and freedom, his face glowing with joy as he experiences the world without being held. Together, they also enjoy quiet moments on a bench, watching boats drift along the Missouri River.
At home, Alexander is supported by his mother, Maria Moraes, and his father, Alex Moraes. Evenings are filled with family rhythms— dinner, wrestling, reading and prayer. For Alex, fatherhood is his proudest achievement. He hopes and prays that one day Alexander will be able to live fully independent.
Alexander Moraes, 6, soars on a swing at a park in Washington, Mo. Swinging is part of his daily routine, something he looks forward to that helps him feel grounded and increases his self-confidence.
Alexander sits on a park bench with his grandmother, Christine “Tina” Dwyer, watching boats drift along the Missouri River. Most afternoons, Tina picks him up from school, gives him a meal and brings him to the park, where he has space to play with other children.
A feeding therapist works with Alexander Moraes at ShowMe Therapy, guiding him through washing his hands independently as part of feeding therapy. Hand-washing can be challenging for Alexander, and practicing this skill helps him gain independence and reinforces the routines associated with eating.
Alexander Moraes leaves ShowMe Therapy with his grandmother and his mother, Maria. Together they support him, helping him transition from therapy to the next part of his day and reinforcing the skills he is learning.
Alexander prepares for horse therapy at Exceptional Equestrians of the Missouri Valley with his grandmother and Dana Kulick, a CODA therapist, who helps support his communication, oral-motor and sensory skills.
Alexander rides Georgia, a Gypsy Vanner, with the support of a side walker, Laurie Henslee.
Alexander and his family share a few moments on the couch just before beginning their bedtime routine, called “Sleepy Time,” which they carefully follow to set up Alexander for a successful night of sleep.
Maria feeds Alexander a spoonful of oatmeal, one of his favorite meals. Alexander can be a picky eater, but he enjoys the oatmeal.
As part of his bedtime routine, Alexander's dad flosses his son's teeth. Flossing provides oral sensory input, which helps Alexander reduce anxiety and feel a sense of safety.
Alexander relaxes on the couch with his iPad, winding down after a long day full of activities and preparing to transition to his bedtime routine.
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