Rather than letting his diagnosis define him or limit his potential, Andrew used
– and still uses – each opportunity to develop new skills and grow.
Destined for greatness
The Hand of God has been a constant presence throughout Andrew Simon’s life. Despite facing numerous challenges, Andrew’s resilience, personal growth, and the unwavering support of those around him have allowed him to rise above adversity. Andrew joined the St. Louis Center team three months ago as a general worker, providing crucial assistance to the Maintenance, Kitchen, and Housekeeping departments. He has become a role model for authenticity and perseverance, empowering others with his strength. From an early age, Andrew demonstrated remarkable potential, and with the guidance of his family and faith, he has transformed into a powerful example of what it means to embrace life’s obstacles with grace and determination, all while empowering those around him.
Andrew’s parents have always been very prayerful over their son’s life and success. In 2005, his father, Tom, was at Eucharistic adoration at Christ the King Church of Ann Arbor, and he shared that Jesus told him that Andrew “is destined for greatness and will make his parents proud.”
Practicing patience
Andrew was in kindergarten when his parents first noticed certain behaviors that pointed to a mood disorder. They had no idea what Andrew was facing, only that it was out of his control. They knew the way to approach their son’s behaviors was to always be patient and encouraging. Unfortunately, his first kindergarten teacher did not feel the same. Andrew’s mood disorder was labeled as a behavioral problem that could only be solved through discipline. After an incident at school, Andrew’s mother sought comfort and advice at church; she prayed to God, “You have to tell me what to do.” After confiding in her cousin who told her to take Andrew out of the school, she enrolled him at Huron Valley Catholic School in Ann Arbor.
By the end of kindergarten, his teacher suggested that Andrew get tested. He was diagnosed with ADHD and “traits on the autistic spectrum.” In light of the diagnosis, Andrew’s parents remained committed to maintaining a patient and encouraging mindset. Andrew’s father was particularly impactful throughout his son’s childhood by providing continuous support and encouragement. The two shared a special tradition on Saturdays when they would get donuts and play checkers in the park. His father also came up with games to encourage Andrew to pick up his toys. Rather than seeing their son’s condition as something that needed to be fixed, the Simons focused on fostering a steady growth mindset, empowering him with the tools he needed to succeed.
Learning to thrive
After kindergarten, Andrew was enrolled at Christian Montessori in Ann Arbor because of its focus on hands-on learning. After several years, his teachers and others close to Andrew suggested that he transfer to a public school because of the specialized support offered. The Simons loved Ann
Arbor but moved to Grass Lake so that Andrew could attend a much smaller public high school. They mentioned that it was the Pious Union of Saint Joseph and Fr. Fortunato, a member of the Servants of Charity congregation whom the family had known from Huron Valley Catholic School, that first piqued their interest in the area. Their decision to relocate is a powerful example of Andrew’s family’s dedication to helping him become the best version of himself; they sacrificed and took action to give him the best chance to thrive.
After transferring to Grass Lake High School, Andrew did indeed thrive. Andrew mentioned that people with similar disabilities usually have difficulties adjusting to new schedules and environments, but when he transferred, he was able to adjust fairly easily. Despite facing early challenges in school and other social situations, Andrew’s resilience allowed him to overcome adversity. Rather than letting his diagnosis define him or limit his potential, Andrew used – and still uses – each opportunity to develop new skills and grow. After Andrew graduated from high school in 2014, he completed several advanced manufacturing classes at Jackson College.
Finding fulfillment
A natural next step in Andrew’s journey came after he completed these classes and sought to apply his newfound skills in the workplace. However, the transition was not without its challenges. Unfortunately, it was difficult to find a position in manufacturing that was a fit with both his interests and course experience. Andrew said he “jumped around” until he found St. Louis Center. His mother said that because of this opportunity, “I see the Hand 
of God on and through him.” She continued, “He wasn’t happy at Dollar General or the gas station.” The Simons believe that St. Louis Center has been a blessing; they are happy about this full-time opportunity for their son and for a new environment where he can flourish.
When asked if he likes working at St. Louis Center, Andrew said, “I like it a lot.” He added that he likes all of his bosses, and even if he’s performing a task that he doesn’t necessarily care for, he still genuinely enjoys the work. His mother described it as “a wonderful mission,” while his father acknowledged, “It’s a difficult position, but Andrew has the right temperament for it.” Andrew is very proud of his abilities and accomplishments. His experiences at St. Louis Center are a testament to the power of finding a way to work towards something meaningful. By being in an environment that values him, Andrew finds fulfillment in the work he does.
Embracing his identity
In the relatively short period of time Andrew has been employed at St. Louis Center, the staff and residents have gotten to know and love him. His passion is visible in the most mundane tasks, from mopping to maintenance. He is an incredibly motivating individual who serves as a role model because of his attitude of perseverance. Andrew easily empowers others simply by being who he is.
Andrew prides himself in being a creative person; he explained that it’s “just how my mind works.” He shared, “People like me with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) view things differently.” He told a moving story about people with similar diagnoses and the book The Rainbow Fish. He said that
most people are happy that the rainbow fish shared his scale. But he said that people like him cry when they read the book because “he gave away what made him special.” In a world with impossible standards to be “normal,” those with ASD should not have to give up what makes them special just to fit in. He emphasizes the importance of not losing one’s unique traits to conform to society’s expectations.
Building on his perspective about embracing uniqueness, Andrew also highlighted how his passions for creativity and history have played a vital role in his personal growth. He added, “A lot of musicians and artists are people with special needs.” These types of outlets are the perfect way for Andrew and those like him to express themselves. And because Andrew embraces these qualities wholeheartedly, he teaches others that embracing what makes them unique is their greatest strength. He embodies the idea that people with ASD can thrive in their environments by owning their identities without giving in to the pressure to fit into narrow societal norms.
Andrew’s parents had a special way of expressing how he processes and thinks about things. His dad described him as “enlightening,” while his mom remarked, “What’s wonderful about him is the way he sees the world.” Andrew tried to describe what it’s like to be inside his mind, “Your head is constantly moving in one direction. Like a river that you can’t stop from flowing, but you are like a rock interrupting the flow of the water, fixed on focusing on one specific thing while everything else is streaming by you.” The constant flow of ideas leads individuals like Andrew to need the 
opportunity to channel their energy into something, and, often, that something is artistic expression. Andrew is now pursuing more schooling; he is taking computer programming classes at Jackson College and hopes to one day work in game development. He believes the games that he will be able to create will be enjoyable for everyone, especially those with ASD.
Empowered to live his life
Andrew’s parents had faith that Andrew would become the successful individual that he is today. There were ups and downs, but they found peace in the belief that “everything will be okay even if it doesn’t feel like it will be okay,” as Andrew’s mother shared.
Andrew Simon’s journey is a powerful testament to the impact of unwavering faith, resilience, and the loving support of family. From a young age, Andrew faced challenges that could have easily hindered his growth, but his parents’ patience, encouragement, and belief in his potential have been integral in shaping him to become the remarkable individual he is today. Despite facing a diagnosis of ADHD and traits on the autism spectrum, Andrew has never allowed these labels to define him. Instead, he embraces his unique strengths and abilities, proving that authenticity and perseverance are essential to personal growth and success. As Andrew’s mother so beautifully expressed, “God has a better plan for your life than you do,” and as his father wisely noted, “We are all observers of God’s will.” These words reflect not only Andrew’s journey, but also the profound faith and love that have guided him every step of the way.
By Karinna Hershberger
