Students at Jameson Elementary School in Old Orchard Beach learned about friendship and accepting differences from some special visitors last week.

Lisa Wentzell, her son Scotty, and Scotty’s loyal companion Spillway came to the school to present a book Wentzell wrote with her friend Heidi Bullen.

“A Dog and his Boy,” is about the friendship between Scotty and Spillway and the adventures the two go on together.

Scotty, 23, of North Yarmouth, was born with a rare chromosome disorder that causes developmental delays. He greeted Jameson students through his iPad, which he uses to communicate with others. By his side was Spillway, a life-sized plush dog. Spillway is not just a toy, as explained in the book, but a special and trusted friend.

Wentzell said that Scotty never really gravitated toward stuffed animals until he got Spillway, and since then, the two have been inseparable. Spillway was named after a ski trail at Sugarloaf Mountain.

The book also talks about the adaptive sports Scotty participates in, like bicycling, skiing and horseback riding, and mentions the fun times he has at Pine Tree Camp.

“I want everyone to know what Scotty can do, even though he is differently-abled. He likes to live life to the fullest,” said Wentzell to the students.

After the presentation Wentzell fielded questions from students.

“I love that you’re spreading the message that people can be different,” said second grader Eleanor Descoteaux.

 

Jameson School kindergartner Teagan Holmes walks back to his seat after saying hello to Scotty Wentzell. PHOTO BY LIZ GOTTHELF

Kindergartner Teagan Holmes asked if he could say hi to Scotty, and when given permission, walked up to the front of the room to give Scotty a fist bump.

As they left the auditorium, all students were given a chance to greet Scotty and give him a fist bump. One student gave him a beaded friendship bracelet.

To learn more about Scotty and Spillway and their adventures, check out their website.

Saco Bay News Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.

Check out the new Saco Bay News shop at Spreadshirt and support local journalism.