Here is an excerpt from a story we'd like to share with you from The Child Health Site's "What My Child with Autism has Taught Me" contest. This is just one of the many stories that inspired us. Please share your own!
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I believe children with autism hold a little piece of heaven in their hearts.
My son Owen was diagnosed with autism when he was 18 months old. My beautiful blonde-haired, big, green-eyed baby was diagnosed with autism! I didn't understand autism. I didn't know anything about autism. All I knew is that I was terribly scared for my beautiful son. I quickly turned my fear into action. I learned everything I could about autism and I got Owen the best possible help I could. Owen responded very well to PECS. He went from non-verbal and pointing to a chatter-box. Many of the textures and sounds that bothered Owen slowly faded away. Owen began to enjoy his life.
Over the years Owen has blossomed! Owen was always affectionate, but over the years of being in therapy, Owen has begun to initiate the hugs and kisses. Owen didn't say "mom" until he was 4, now at age 7 he says "I love you mommy" all the time.
Owen has taught me a lot! He has taught me not to give up. I didn't know what the outcome of his therapy may be, but I could not give up. The giggles and smiles from Owen after telling him "good job" empowered me to keep going. Also, Owen was such an innocent soul. Owen is very empathetic. If you cry, he cries, telling you everything will "be okay".
I love you Owen and I thank you for teaching me to be more aware, compassionate and empathetic.
Anywhere, DC