When my son was 5 months old I felt something just wasn't right. Thought he had hearing problems. He didn't do what my daughter did. No babbling. Didn't crawl. Family would say he's a boy they take longer to develop. By 9 months old he was getting treatment from early childhood intervention.I knew with these services this would not make "him normal". I knew something was really wrong by the time he reached 1year and a half. He wasn't walking Or talking. He wouldn't let me hug or kiss him. Always pushing me away. Aidan countinued therapies. When he was 2 and a half he was diagnosed with autism. I was happy to know the truth. Relived to have an answer. At the sametime my world came crashing down. My heart was broken. I looked at this little boy and knew he would depend on me for everything forever. He would never leave my side. I accepted it. After all I have bipolar disorder. I decided we would battle together. Beat our disorders together. He would depend on me just as I would depend on him. It's been a long tiring road. Overwhelming at times. Always having to defend him from looks and comments. Today Aidan is 9. He is so smart so loving. He gives me so much hope. He teaches me everyday that this disorder can be managed and beaten. We still have our battles but he has come so far. He still recives speech, occupational and physical therapy every week. I look at this little man with so much joy. I envy him at times for being so innocent, so happy, so loving and unaware of how cruel society can be. I would never change one single thing about him. I love his weird sounds. Love the way he twirls and flops around. Think he gives me energy at times.
They say 1 in 88 will be born with autism. I'm so very lucky to be the one! AUTISM ROCKS!!!!
San Antonio, TX
