Austin's Story - Louis Detweiler

Austin’s life was destroyed by self-indulgence, neglect, and abuse. However, through the hearts of many, Austin’s life was restored with meaning and peace. This story reflects Austin’s life and his desire to help others. With no Dad and an alcoholic mother, Austin’s trials of foster care scarred his journey into adulthood. However, Austin continues to touch many lives today. From the hope others gave him, Austin wants to give hope to those who suffered as he. Austin’s testimony testifies that we have a great social structure here in the United States. As a toddler, Austin only acted out and learned what he was taught. Once asked, “What is a joint?” He responded, “A place to get beer.” During foster care, Guardian angels supported him the best they could. Even in the darkest hour, there was hope for Austin. Austin’s adoption at age seven placed him with a permanent family. Once adopted, Austin’s parents learned he had fetal alcohol syndrome. Austin’s mother, an alcoholic, stunted Austin’s cognitive abilities as well as his physical body. However, it did not stop Austin’s enthusiasm for life. His guardian angels surprised him at Christmas one year that he still talks about today. As a youngster, Austin never tired of trying new things and meeting new people. Once he picked up a six-foot snake to show you his new friend. As Austin developed from youth into adolescence, the demons of the past encircled him and his parents put him into a Group Outdoor Camp. The goal of the wilderness camp was to help troubled youth. His placement at Three Springs came about through Judge George F. Bason’s work in bringing litigation against the state of North Carolina. Judge Bason had seen repeat youth offenders that weren’t helped by prison. Once he found out that the state of North Carolina had no money set aside to help these floundering youth he sued the state and won. A fund named, “Willie M.” was set up. The Willie M. grant funded Austin’s placement. Life at Three Springs was hard, but through support of other members and staff, Austin made it. Living outdoors year round and dealing with other youth taught Austin to be more respectful to others. While enduring Three Springs, his adopted family separated. Eventually, Austin moved to Asheville, North Carolina with his adopted mother. There, Austin was given little help. Only after repeated letters to then Governor Jim Hunt were funds released to help Austin. In a few years he was given another chance to move in with another family. However, the demons of the past encircled Austin and it didn’t work. After the placement failure, Austin met a woman who managed several group homes. Austin lived in a group home with her for over 13 years. Besides taking vacations, he helped feed the homeless, build a thrift store, and helped at an animal shelter. When he wasn’t on vacation, he worked every day. He helped get government funding by keeping his living quarters neat and clean. At the group home, Austin began writing. He wanted to tell his story to help others. The last chapter touches on the history of Foster Care. Today, Austin enjoys a positive environment filled with working at an animal shelter, volunteering at a thrift store, and visiting family. Austin’s life demonstrates the spirit of the individual that can flourish and provide a positive impact with support and love.