AUTISM AWARENESS DAY is today. I cannot tell you how much this has completely changed our lives. It was 8 years ago at this time my wife & I were desperately trying to figure out what was going on, or what was not going on in many cases with our son. While watching the Today Show, Matt Lauer had a piece on Autism Awareness Month, not really having any clue what it really was, but that story was the final straw in knowing we needed to check this out. We looked into it by getting involved in Early Intervention, which they couldn’t really tell us exactly what the problem was but it did lead us after some searching to a diagnosis of Autism (PDD-Not Otherwise Specified) from two different Developmental Pediatricians. The next 6 years was like living secluded from the rest of the world with the exception of a few key family members & friends. Frustration, anger, complete loss of faith on why this was happening were just a small portion of what was going on personally with me. Our entire 30’s was a blur for my wife & I. We couldn’t go anywhere or really do anything for fear of meltdowns in public. Nap times & sleeping was non existent. All I wanted was to have a conversation with my son, something most people take for granted. Luckily through the PLAY PROJECT, some very emotional painstaking work, support of family, friends & coworkers…we’ve had so many breakthroughs. Our family & son are currently living a “normal” kind of life most of the time. Although this situation is always on my mind & sticks with us everyday, & looking back at old photos can sometimes be very emotional, we are truly blessed to be in the position we’re in 2014. My son does not recall 99% of what happened, including the way we as parents lost patience way too often. He’s a happy kid, teases his sister often (YES!!!) & is progressing in a regular classroom at school everyday. This whole thing has taught me a lot more patience, understanding & a much deeper faith than ever before. The picture is an art piece that reminds me of this constantly & grounds me daily. Basically what I’m saying is if you think your child is not progressing in certain areas, or your gut tells you something is not quite right…get things checked out. DO NOT be fed the the line “everything will be ok” by your family doctor. Dig deeper & check things out. There are so many great programs, assistance, aid, & grants out there as well to be utilized. For those not affected by Autism, please & thank you for your understanding, support & encouragement.
Posted on: Wed, 02 Apr 2014 16:17:11 +0000
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