Mom Therese Ojibway creates whimsical fairy forest inspired by son with autism.

Therese Ojibway, a devoted mother with a passion for fairy tales and a childhood filled with magic, turned a simple forest walk into a journey of creation and healing. Her inspiring story takes us from the calm woods of Millburn, New Jersey, to an enchanted kingdom where imagination flourishes and the community comes together around a noble cause.

Raised in Minnesota, in a large family of 10 siblings, Ojibway grew up surrounded by stories of "little houses, little things, little people." From an early age, she nurtured a fascination with the fables and legends that populated her imagination, leaving small notes and food in hidden nooks for the supposed mystical inhabitants of the forests.

One day, while hiking near her home in New Jersey, Ojibway came across a hollow in a tree that caught her eye. This magical moment stirred memories of her childhood and prompted her to ponder the possibility of bringing some of the magic from her youthful tales into real life. Motivated by this vision, she embarked on a journey of creation that would change not only her life but that of many others.

With her son, Clinton Craig, diagnosed with autism at the age of three, Ojibway imagined ways to provide him with a safe and stimulating environment. Thus, the Fairy Trail was born, a magical path filled with fairy houses and wonders of nature. For Clinton, the experience of exploring this enchanted world was not only fun but also therapeutic, providing him with a deep connection to nature and stimulating his imagination.

What started as a personal project quickly became a community cause. With the support of the South Mountain Conservancy and dedicated volunteers, the Fairy Trail grew and became a meeting point for families and nature lovers. Ojibway's dedication to sharing her magical vision not only transformed her son's life but also enriched the experience of an entire community.

Source of information: https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2024/03/28/south-mountain-fairy...
Contact information: linkedin.com/in/therese-ojibway-81817921

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcOVEuDKCSc