NAVIGATION

A Magical, Musical Summer

10/12/24



All across May programs, you regularly hear staff talking about happiness. And quality of life. What are all the big and small things that are meaningful and bring joy to the lives of the children and adults we serve? How can we incorporate those things into their everyday lives, the same way each of us is intentional about doing the things that make US happy?

For Ty, a man in our adult residential program, it’s music. And bands. And particularly 80’s and 90’s rock alternative. He loves it so much that attending concerts became a goal in his Individual Service Plan!

Keith Durant, Sr. Assistant Director of Residential Services for residential services in Eastern Mass., shares Ty’s love of music. So Keith researched and planned a line-up of concerts this summer that he and Ty could attend together. People started recognizing the pair as they showed up to one concert after another. Everyone was fun and kind and welcoming, and made it an even more magical experience.

Ty’s parents watched this video that Keith put together for them, and they were both grateful and a “little teary-eyed.” ???? His mom’s words were, “Livin’ the LIFE!”

Living our best lives. It’s what all of us want. We are tremendously grateful to all the May employees like Keith, across all our programs, who want that for the individuals we serve, and go above and beyond to make joy happen.

Ty is nonverbal. Keith wrote the note below as his interpretation of how Ty might describe his summer. (P.S. Ty prefers wearing headphones, but they didn’t get in the way of fabulous concert experiences!)
 
“Hello! My name is Tyrone, but everyone calls me Ty. I’ve always had a passion for music—especially the hits from the 80s and 90s. This summer, I went on a musical journey that truly changed my life. Let me take you along on this magical ride!

The first concert of the summer I attended was the Hootie and the Blowfish, Barenaked Ladies, Collective Soul, and Edwin McCain show on June 21st at Fenway Park. I was mesmerized by the live performances of songs I’d only ever heard on the radio. I danced in my seat, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Unfortunately, rain cut the night short, but it was a thrilling start to my concert adventures.

Next up was The Dave Matthews Band at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield. I experienced my first tailgating party here—chilling in the parking lot, enjoying delicious food, and people-watching. Inside the venue, I ran into my housemate’s dad and some friends from my support staff. When the music started, I was overjoyed, swaying and dancing with the crowd. The night was filled with smooth tunes, making it an unforgettable experience.

Then I was back at Fenway Park for Blink-182. My seats were fantastic—just a few feet from the Red Sox dugout! When Blink-182 took the stage, the energy was electric. I couldn’t sit still; I was up dancing and loving the incredible laser light show throughout the concert.

The following week, I attended a two-night Metallica concert at Gillette Stadium—my biggest venue yet! Hearing those familiar riffs made me smile from ear to ear. I sang along to all my favorite songs, and even though it rained on the second night, the show went on and was nothing short of amazing. I loved swaying my light back and forth during one of their slower songs.

Just one night after Metallica, I was lucky enough to see the Steve Miller Band, Journey, and Def Leppard at Fenway Park. These bands represent the music I grew up loving with my dad and brother. The show started off brilliantly, and I even bumped into some friends from previous concerts. Dancing and singing along to songs I recognized made this one of the best shows of my summer.

Two nights later, I saw the Smashing Pumpkins and Green Day (one of my personal favorites) back at Fenway. We started in our seats for the opening act, but then we got wristbands that moved us to the front of the stage, just ten feet away! I couldn’t believe my luck. The crowd was amazing, and Green Day’s performance was a blast.

The eighth show was The Zac Brown Band and Kenny Chesney at Gillette Stadium. I loved the tailgating experience again—everyone was so friendly, sharing food and playing music. When Zac Brown Band hit the stage, I recognized many songs, but when Kenny Chesney came out, the entire stadium erupted with applause. The energy was contagious!

Next, I attended a Weezer concert at TD Garden in Boston, where we had special access seats. Being so close to the stage made me feel nostalgic, as their music took me back to childhood memories with my family. I even ran into familiar faces from other shows, which made the night feel even more special.

Finally, I wrapped up my summer concert experience with Post Malone at Fenway Park. The weather was beautiful, and although we were seated higher up, we had comfy swivel chairs with a great view of the Boston skyline. The music was incredible, and a fireworks show added to the excitement. I even bumped into more concert friends, making the night even more memorable.

I came away with new T-shirts from all the shows, each one a reminder of the amazing experiences I had this summer. As Green Day sings, “I’ve had the time of my life.” This summer taught me just how powerful music can be in bringing people together, regardless of their backgrounds. I’m grateful for the opportunity to enjoy such an unforgettable summer filled with joy and connection.

I hope you enjoyed this little trip down memory lane as I relive the greatest summer of my life!”