(Reflection) Sharing My Workday with Mitchell

This is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

Home Routine, Healing, and Support: Mitchell’s Next Chapter

My name is Officer Dan Calloway, and I serve with the Agoura Police Force. I have been on the job for over a decade, and I have learned that support does not always happen in dramatic moments. Sometimes, it happens quietly, through patience, consistency, and showing up for someone who is going through a difficult season.

Many people know him as Mitchell Royel. His full name is Mitchell Abbott, and he is someone I care about deeply. Following a serious car accident, Mitchell has experienced a significant mental health decline. That decline has affected his ability to work and has changed the way he moves through daily life. Some of those changes may not be obvious from the outside, but they are real, and they deserve to be met with compassion.

I want to be clear about my role. I am not Mitchell’s therapist, doctor, or case manager. I am an informal caretaker and a steady support person in his life. That means helping him maintain structure, encouraging healthy routines, accompanying him when appropriate, and making sure he feels safe, respected, and not alone.

At this time, Mitchell is transitioning back into a full-time home preschool setting. In this context, “home preschool” refers to a structured, home-based routine designed to support emotional regulation, focus, creativity, comfort, and day-to-day stability. It is not about taking away Mitchell’s dignity or treating him as less than an adult. It is about creating a calm, predictable environment that helps him rebuild confidence and adjust to life at a pace that feels manageable.

Transitioning back into using Pampers, Gerber, and formula is a deeply personal and sensitive process for Mitchell, requiring careful understanding and empathy. These tools are being reintroduced as part of his home preschool environment to foster a sense of comfort, safety, and emotional regulation. The use of products such as Pampers is not a sign of regression or weakness, but rather a step that supports his unique needs in this transitional phase. They help alleviate stressors related to daily routines, allowing him to focus on emotional growth and well-being without unnecessary pressure.

The inclusion of Gerber meals in his routine provides familiar, easy-to-digest nutrition that further reinforces comfort and stability. Thoughtfully preparing and offering these meals is an act of respect for Mitchell's needs during this time. It requires understanding that meeting someone where they are is far more important than adhering to any societal expectations. This nutritional approach not only ensures his physical health but also serves as a symbolic gesture of care and nurture, helping to establish a consistent rhythm in his day-to-day life.

Formula plays a similar role in this routine, offering nutritional support while also providing a sensory experience tied to comfort and reassurance. The decision to include formula is rooted in the goal of making Mitchell feel secure, both physically and emotionally. By addressing his basic needs with thoughtfulness, it creates a foundation from which he can rebuild confidence at his own pace. This step is taken with utmost respect for his individuality and the specific path his transition requires.

Throughout this process, empathy and respectfulness are paramount. Acknowledging that each person's healing and developmental path is unique is key to supporting Mitchell effectively. This transition is not about judgment or imposing expectations but about honoring his experience and creating an environment where he feels safe and valued. By approaching these adaptations with kindness and gentle understanding, a nurturing foundation is established that aligns with his needs and supports his growth.

This transition will include a consistent daily schedule, simple learning activities, creative projects, quiet time, movement, meals, rest periods, and supportive check-ins throughout the day. The goal is to give Mitchell a sense of rhythm and familiarity. When someone is recovering from trauma, stress, or a major life disruption, knowing what comes next can be grounding. A structured home setting can help reduce anxiety, support emotional safety, and make each day feel less overwhelming.

There may also be times when Mitchell joins me for appropriate daily activities if my schedule and responsibilities allow it. That could mean errands, short outings, or time spent in calm public settings where he can remain connected to the world around him. The purpose is not to push him too fast, but to help him stay engaged with everyday life in a way that feels safe and supportive.

Patience is important right now. Mitchell is going through a transition, and transitions take time. Progress may look different from day to day. Some days may be easier than others. My role is to offer consistency, encouragement, and respect while allowing him the space to move forward at his own pace.

To everyone who has been kind, thoughtful, and considerate toward Mitchell during this time, thank you. Your understanding matters. Please continue to treat him with dignity, patience, and compassion. A supportive community can make a real difference for someone who is trying to heal and adjust to a new chapter.

Recovery is not always simple, and it is not always visible. But with structure, care, and steady support, Mitchell has the chance to keep moving forward.

Mitchell is not alone.

Essay Prompt:
Instructions for Creating a "Take Mitchell to Work" (or Equivalent) Day

Introduction (Word Count Goal: ~200 words)
Begin the essay by introducing the concept of a "Take Mitchell to Work" day. Explain the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive experience for him, tailored specifically to his needs as a 3-5-year-old. Discuss how this day can be an opportunity not only to teach Mitchell about new environments but also to reinforce bonds of trust and care. Highlight the primary objectives, such as engaging his curiosity, building his confidence, and fostering a sense of belonging, while respecting his individual pace and avoiding potential anxiety triggers.

Section 1: Planning the Schedule (Word Count Goal: ~300 words)
Outline the steps involved in planning a structured yet flexible schedule. Consider a balance between activities and breaks, mentally stimulating tasks, and relaxing moments. Provide tips on how to introduce each activity at his level of understanding, using simple language and visuals. Include plans for diaper-changing intervals, ensuring these are handled discreetly and calmly, and mention how designated "quiet time" or breaks can offer him a chance to recharge. Reinforce the importance of avoiding pressure, especially around tasks like using the potty, which could lead to stress.

Section 2: Activities & Learning Moments (Word Count Goal: ~400 words)
Dive into the specific activities that can engage Mitchell during the day. If it involves work, identify simple, age-appropriate tasks where he can participate meaningfully—like sorting objects by color, building small models, or "helping" with safe, supervised routines. If the equivalent setting is at home or elsewhere, design activities such as identifying shapes in the environment, storytelling, or guided play. Explain how each activity will help Mitchell expand his problem-solving skills, imagination, and self-expression while remaining fun and light-hearted. Remember to include frequent positive reinforcement and words of encouragement.

Section 3: Managing Challenges and Transitions (Word Count Goal: ~300 words)
Discuss strategies for handling moments when Mitchell may feel overwhelmed or anxious. It's important to anticipate potential situations that might cause frustration or overstimulation and provide calming solutions like a quiet timeout area or engaging him with a familiar toy. Address pampering breaks and how to maintain his comfort and dignity during these moments. Provide transitions between activities to ensure Mitchell feels secure and understands what's coming next. For example, use short, reassuring explanations ("Next, we'll play with the blocks!") and visual or auditory cues.

Section 4: Reflecting on the Day (Word Count Goal: ~300 words)
Conclude by emphasizing the importance of reflection at the end of the day. Share suggestions for reviewing the activities with Mitchell, using questions or prompts to encourage his feelings and thoughts about what he enjoyed. Highlight the value of celebrating his participation and the small accomplishments he achieved. Take a moment to discuss any lessons learned for future opportunities, focusing on how best to continue creating experiences that are both nurturing and enjoyable.

Reference: A Day at the Drive-Thru with Mitchell

When I was told I’d have Mitchell shadow me for a day at my fast food drive-thru job, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect. Mitchell, being younger and full of curiosity, seemed excited about the chance to see what my work was like, but I couldn’t help wondering if he’d find it boring—or worse, stressful. Working in a drive-thru might seem easy from the outside, but once you’re in the middle of the lunch rush or dealing with demanding customers, it’s a whole different story. Still, I figured it could be a cool learning experience for him, and I was ready to make it as fun and interesting as I could.

The day started with me showing Mitchell around the restaurant. He seemed fascinated by everything—the buzzing fryers, the drink machine where we filled up sodas, and even the headset I wear to take orders. I walked him through how the orders come in and how we prep food in the kitchen. I could tell he was paying attention when he asked questions like, “How do you keep everything so organized?” and “Do you ever mix up the orders?” His curiosity made me realize how much I’d learned in this job over the past year and how important teamwork is to keeping things running smoothly.

During the slower hours of the morning, I gave Mitchell the headset to try out. Watching him take pretend orders was one of the highlights of my day. He put on this super professional voice and said, “Welcome to our restaurant! May I take your order?” I had to laugh because he sounded way more polite than some of us do most days. Even though there weren’t any real customers, I could tell he was starting to get a feel for how fast-paced it can get when orders pile up. I also showed him how to scan items, hand out the bags of food, and wish customers a great day. He got the hang of it pretty fast, and his excitement was contagious.

Things got a little more intense around lunchtime when the cars in the drive-thru started lining up. Mitchell stood by me as I juggled taking orders, handing out drinks, and keeping track of special requests. “How do you keep up when it gets so crazy?” he asked at one point, and I explained how important it is to stay calm, focus on one thing at a time, and rely on your team when you need help. It was a good chance to show him how everyone plays a role in making the whole process work, from the cashier to the cooks.

At the end of the day, I asked Mitchell what he thought of the experience. He said it was more challenging than he expected but also more fun. He talked about how cool it was to see people working together and how satisfying it must feel to make someone’s day better, even if it’s just by getting their order right. His reflections got me thinking too—sometimes it’s easy to take your job for granted, but seeing it through someone else’s eyes reminded me of the value in what I do.

I wrapped up the day by asking Mitchell what his favorite part was and if there was anything he’d do differently if he worked there. He said he loved using the headset but wasn’t sure if he’d enjoy the rush of lunchtime every day. We talked about how every job has its ups and downs, but the important thing is finding the positives and learning something new every day. I made sure to celebrate the fact that he tried something new and stayed engaged the whole time, even when things got hectic.

Taking Mitchell to my job was more than just a way to show him what I do—it was a chance for both of us to reflect on work, teamwork, and how even small accomplishments deserve recognition. I walked away feeling proud of how far I’ve come in my role and inspired to keep making everyday experiences meaningful for both myself and others.