1983 our beautiful baby boy was born our 3rd son, so adorable but very quiet. I felt something was going to be wrong, even though the pregnancy was uneventful, I just had this feeling.
Dean was always a very placid boy never would hit anyone and with the assistance of The Autistic Association we finally toilet trained Dean around 5 years of age. HIs brothers started swimming lessons under 5 and the instructor a very special lady -Mrs Parker said she could teach Dean too. Dean learnt to dog paddle . Dean loves swimming.
No health issues had all his immunisations. A very quiet baby would not suck a dummy preferred to suck pointer finger which he would bend and put in his mouth.
Dean started young to develop an attachment to buttons. Carried pyjama tops around and prefer to be alone. Dean would suck his finger and twiddle the buttons with his other hand. He would line up toys in straight lines, he did not snuggle when nursing him.
From manually grabbing hold of Deans hand and picking up papers and putting in the bin (over and over ) Dean always put litter in the bin. Sleeping was another issue we had but he is okay today He loved balancing on fences he would walk up and down cyclone fences - amazing balance
Deans 30th Birthday we hired a hall had fancy dress party a great night selected his own Police uniform costume. He had a smile on his face all night but mostly sat alone and smiled. He purchased himself a signed photograph of Nathan Hindmarsh and a Parramatta Jersey, Sharks scarf and a NSW cap now that's a real football fanatic.
a quote from our first next door neighbour
"So Dean, even though you will probably never realise, my time with you and your wonderful family has had a major impact on my life (in a good way) so Thanking You!!!"
This lady is one of many people Dean has touched. Dean elects to be non-verbal always has but can talk when he wants.
Sydney, Australia