Autism After 40: “Where Did That Come From?”

Dad here.  Big Dude is a perpetual three-year-old but many times we see him mature and show a different side of himself that makes Mom and me scratch our heads and ask rhetorically, “Where did that come from?” One such ritual is Big Dude’s insistence that I am fully dressed for the day from the moment we greet each other. Big Dude picks out my shirt. There are several that are his favorites. He chooses my trousers, shoes, and socks. If I am standing he will often push me gently…

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What Families Like Mine Wish You Knew

Today I want to share with you a story, it’s the story of families like ours. It’s the story of those of us that are living a life with a family member who has complex needs. Today, I want to give you a peek behind the curtain so that, if you don’t live this life, you can maybe understand it a little better. Please know that every family like ours needs understanding, it can be a lonely road we walk. We often find comfort from the people that have similar…

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Telling the Story of a Boy with Autism

When I walked into the store, you were standing in the produce section near the fruit. The first thing I noticed about you was your jacket. I love that color blue, and it looked nice with your dark hair. I walked past you, and I almost tripped over an empty basket someone had left in the middle of the aisle. I glanced over my shoulder and I smiled. I rolled my eyes a little. “Who would leave their basket like this?” You looked up from your bag of apples, and…

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A Letter To The Mom With A Newly Diagnosed Child

Dear Mama,  I know you’re probably feeling every single emotion flooding through your body right now…  And I wish that I was there to wrap my arms around you and give you the big loving hug you so desperately need.  I may not physically be there with you, but please know that I am here…along with an army of fierce mamas who have been exactly where you are.  I’ve been on this journey for almost 9 years now and there are a few things I’ve learned along the way.  Many…

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