Autism: Surviving and Thriving

Fourteen years ago my youngest 3 boys were diagnosed with autism within a 9 month span. Devastation and grieving followed. Doctors gave me little or no hope, but they didn't know me very well. I refused to believe that my boys were doomed.

My boys are now young men, adults with autism. They are thriving, but every day presents its turmoil and challenges.

My family: husband Mike, sons Ryan 23 yr, Nicholas 21 yr, and Cameron 18 yr. (Ryan and Nick have autism; Cam has recovered from autism.) Our oldest sons, Michael 34 yr and Stuart 25 yr, moved out of the house. Ryan has also moved out, and is still working towards complete independence.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Surprises

"I don't know." That is usually the response to any question given Ryan. It is an easy out, and he does not have to talk much. Not many people will pursue asking more questions either.

I receive that answer every time I ask Ryan what he might want to pursue as a hobby or career. "I don't know" rings out. Yesterday, Ryan told me that he wants to try his hand at writing. That totally surprised me. Ryan has a difficult time expressing himself, whether in conversation or in an essay. Overcoming an obstacle is never easy.

Yet, when I think about it--when I started home schooling him three years, he started writing a book. At first, I did not think much of it. However, now he has shown me 40 pages of written words, telling a story. His own creation. Now he's back at school, and English is very difficult. He writes his book when he takes a break from homework.

I never imagined that my son with autism, whose language skills are not very strong, would want to pursue writing! Just goes to show that the potential of these autistic kids is endless.

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