INDIANAPOLIS - Coming to terms with the traumatic events of the deadly south side blast is difficult for many, but it can be especially hard for a child with special needs.

The blast destroyed Sara Schout's home. Her 10-year-old son Ethan, who has autism, is especially rattled.

"His meltdowns have been increasing. He's gotten up in the middle of the night since it happened," Schout said.

But in the therapy pool at the Jewish Community Center, Ethan finds serenity.

"It's very helpful. It's calming influence."

Ethan suffered a bloody nose when the explosion knocked him out of bed, but his mom worries the emotional wounds will take longer to heal.
 
They lived a few doors down from the house that exploded, and their home must be demolished.

Authorities are now saying the blast was intentional.

"That's not OK. That's not right," Schout said. "I pity the person that resorts to horrible act. I worry for their soul; I pity them.

And the mother of four said she forgives those responsible.

"God says forgive those who hurt you and love your enemy," she said.

Nothing can replace the memories of the house the Schout family called home for 11 years.

Schout said her family will rebuild, just not in the Richmond Hill subdivision.

She said her focus is on her family, and she's thankful this holiday season that her husband and four children survived the blast.