Teenager with Autism Celebrates Prom in Asda Lorry
Nineteen-year-old James Corker, who has severe autism, had a unique and memorable experience celebrating his prom in an Asda lorry, a vehicle he has grown to love since developing a passion for them at the age of two. With the help of Community Life Champion Ella Healey and driver Derek Crissell, James was given the opportunity to travel to his prom at The Cavendish High School Academy in Runcorn in the decorated lorry. This was not the first special occasion James had celebrated at the Warrington depot, having also celebrated his 18th birthday there.
Key Takeaways:
- James Corker, a 19-year-old with severe autism, has been visiting the Warrington Asda depot every Saturday since he was 16, where he has developed a passion for lorries and has become friends with the security guards and drivers.
- The depot's Community Life Champion, Ella Healey, arranged for James to take a tour of the site, where he was given his own uniform and clocking-on card, and now participates in activities such as handing out delivery notes to drivers.
- James' mum, Gill, credits Asda for being "beyond amazing" in their support for James, allowing him to have a special relationship with the depot staff.
- The lorry used for James' prom was decorated in a similar way to a limousine, complete with a personal touch from the driver and Ella Healey.
- This is not the first special occasion James has celebrated at the depot, having also marked his 18th birthday there.
- James' love of lorries began at the age of two, and his passion has only grown stronger over the years.
Statistics:
- Age at which James developed a passion for lorries: 2
- Age when James and his mum started regularly visiting the Warrington Asda depot: 16
- Times James has visited the depot per week: 1
- Special occasions James has celebrated at the depot: 2 (prom and 18th birthday)
Sources:
- Personal account by James Corker's mum, Gill
- Community Life Champion Ella Healey
- Driver Derek Crissell
- Asda Warrington depot staff