Autism Awareness Day Thursday, April 2

As I have mentioned before in this blog before, my second-born son, Paul is Autistic. Here he is with our dog, Tom.

Paul is thirty-six years now, and was diagnosed at three and a half years, which was early for that time. Before he was diagnosed, he was really a wonder to me. I didn't understand his fears, perseverations, lack of eye contact, and especially his unwillingness to be hugged or even touched.

When the professionals started teaching me the little they knew about autism at that time, questions started to be answered. At that time, the therapists, my oldest son, Bob, and I tried everything to help him with his daily living skills, communication (he still talks very little, and seldom initiates conversation), and developing a daily routine. 

The real truth is, that autism is still a big question mark. 

There have been many studies, and great strides in helping people who are affected, but: 

THERE ARE NO REAL ANSWERS. There is NO definitive cause. There is NO special gene that has been detected as the cause. There IS NO SUPER CURE for autism yet. Each person is an individual, and exhibits different behaviours.

I have a 'pet rock' on my mantel that says "Every day is an adventure". Well this is my life living with someone who is delightfully autistic!

Here is my own sign:

EVERY DAY IS A NEW AND EXCITING ADVENTURE LIVING WITH YOU MY ENCHANTING AND ENTHUSIASTIC SON WHO IS LIVING ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM!   

Wear BLUE on Thursday April 2, and have a wonder-filled day!

Phoebe Brown.