Meet Caroline & Kathryn

Caroline Guravage is a Junior at Mansfield High School where she plays flute in the Marching Band, competes with the tennis team, and holds a significant role in the school's Mock Trial. While shining in many extracurriculars, Caroline shines even brighter as a younger sister.  She has shared with the Siblings in Stride community a glimpse into her life with her older sister Kathryn, who has autism. Kathryn is notorious for her sense of humor and always bringing joy to Mansfield, and much of her positivity is due to the kindness and inclusivity of the Guravage Family. Caroline writes:  "My older sister's name is Kathryn. She has Autism, mostly in the form of learning challenges and sensory issues. Having Kathryn as my sister has taught me to have lots of patience and how to adapt in certain situations that may not be most comfortable for her. Over the years I've waited at eye doctors appointments (getting eye drops are Kathryn's least favorite), different OT sessions when she was younger and others. We also have to be extra cautious when we go out to eat because of my sister's food allergies, which also means regular visits to an allergist. Over the years, loud noises have always been a challenge too, but my family has learned that there is nothing a pair of headphones can’t fix! Kathryn participates in the Next Steps program at MHS where she has some amazing teachers helping her learn new life skills that may not come as easy to her and so far, she has learned so much and loves the program! Overall Kathryn has helped me to learn so many things like patience, kindness, inclusion, putting others ahead of yourself and so much more. Kathryn is the best sister I could have asked for :)" Caroline has shown that even the greatest hurdles don't always have to be an obstacle. 

Thank you Caroline for sharing your story!