January 8, 2008

ENGLAND – A British girl who suffers from a chromosomal defect, learning disabilities and autism was thought to be unable to communicate. That is, until she met a herd of cows.

According to the Daily Mail, four-year-old Rose Willcocks has a “floppy voice-box and windpipe.”

The disability is a genetic defect that, along with mental challenges, prevents her from communicating.

Her mother Esme says she couldn't tell when her daughter was hungry, tired or sick. But after staying at a farm recently, a glimmer of hope rekindled the family's spirit. While at the farm, little Rosie began talking with a herd of nearby cows.

Thirty-sever-year-old Esme says she couldn't believe what she was hearing. The girl wasn't using actual words, but she was – for lack of a better phrase – talking to the cow.

Since uncovering the curious communicative ability of their daughter, Esme and husband Dave have arranged specialized therapy for Rosie.

The couple, who also have two-year-old daughter named Ruby, plan to take Rose to the U.S. so she can attend other animal-related therapy alternatives. She'll be swimming with the dolphins, for example, during one of those sessions.

Esme says her daughter is normally something of an introvert, but once with the animals turns into a chatty Cathy. Not surprising, since one of the many symptoms of Autism and Autism-related diseases like Asperger's Syndrome are anti-social behavior toward humans. Often, those with such disorders have an affinity for animals.

Rose's parents say they hope to improve upon their daughter's newly found ability. They've nicknamed her Miss Dolittle in honor of her animal interactions.

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