As I graduated elementary school, I felt as if it's over, however, I also felt that there'll be many more challenges I'm about to face. Mom continued to support me throughout the years. She teached me many things as she could about getting through life's challenges. She exposed me to different places, to learn. I began to school @Hopwood Junior High, while mom applied me for services for Special Education. It was still hard for me to find good friends, and I was super nervous during my 1st year of middle school. I had some new bullies, but still tried to move on. I think around that time, my mom and I joined the Autism Society, along with other members who shared their stories about their children with Autism. Together, we try to build a strong foundation in the group. I met a good friend of mine who also has Asperger's Syndrome, like me, and shared almost the same interests. With the group, we had lots of fun, celebrating Autism Awareness Month every year, and doing fun activities around the island. Furthermore, I made it through middle school, and learned lots more. Finally, I was schooling @Kagman High as a Freshman, Sophomore, and Junior. Unfortunately then, we had to move, with so much tears, we could not forget how many years we've been living in our own home since mom & dad got married, leaving behind unforgettable memories when I used to play my ball back and forth in the living room, and all the veggies and fruits my mom and dad maintained, we had no choice, due to our late time of house payment. Luckily, my mother and I found a place to live, while my father stays at his mom's house. We couldn't stay together from now on, since my Dad's still high-tempered. And during the year, I finally Graduated as a Senior @Mariana High School. I was improving, and learned more things that I possible could. My mom was so proud of me, and how much I've grown during the years. Yet... (to be continued...)

Larissa Marie
Mililani, HI