At first I knew not to much about autism, then I took a job in a group home and it changed my view point. I stared my first day intimidated that something was going to go wrong, and then months into the job Well it did, I was knocked unconscious by one of the residents. Meanwhile my coworkers tried to control him, while I lay helpless on the floor. The resident Ricky then came over to me looked at me and continues to say "needs help" over and over again.
While staff tried to control the other resident Ricky dragged me upstairs and led me to the office. I sat there confused and just couldn't process what had all happened. My cell phone rang, Ricky said "it's mom" ( she had her own ringtone) I said hello in a crying voice and then I just passed the phone to Ricky where he told my mom what hospital I was going to. The ambulance showed up and Ricky tried to come with me. But ultimately wasn't allowed to come back.
I returned to the group home were Ricky ran out the door and hugged me. I couldn't go back to work for a little bit afterwards but i made sure I could see him in his day program and talk on the phone. I was able to go back to work after about 6 weeks.
Ricky and I had such a special bond that it was something unexpected. I taught him things he wasn't able to do in the past. Him and I would go outside and pretend monster where on the roof and then sign and dance outside in the ran. Everyday he put a smile on my face and everyday was a different adventure.
Hopatcong, NJ