For Kenth

Brittany Greeson

Danish School of Media and Journalism

After several doctor visits, Britta realized that her son Kenth's slow development was actually a mental handicap. At first prepared to take on the challenge of raising him at home, she saw that as he progressed into adulthood, his mental illness did, too. His violent behavior became overwhelming for the family, and Kenth was sent to live in an institution with hopes of a better life.
The reality that first greeted Kenth was far from ideal. Life in an institution designed for people with autism only heightened his violence and misery. He retreated to isolation.
Years passed before Kenth moved to Solund, an institution near his home in Skanderborg, Denmark. Solund had recently transitioned into a philosophy called "gentle teaching."
Today, Kenth, 35, is one of more than 200 residents at Solund. With his family's support and his caretakers' attention, his once violent behavior has revealed a complex and curious man. Almost eight years in the making, Kenth has a new story.