Most stories start with “we knew right away something was different” or “we knew something was wrong when we weren’t hitting milestones.” Our story is different. It seemed like the issues that we were dealing with were all typical: biting in daycare, frustration when over stimulated, strict routines, fixation with certain toys. Nothing hit a trigger for us until Kindergarten. The first day of school went terribly wrong! In the first 2 weeks of Kindergarten, A.J. had several meltdowns, punched a principal and was spending more time in the office than he did in class. He was written up, paddled and suspended all within those first couple of weeks. He was quickly labeled a bad kid. I knew something was wrong and soon A.J. was diagnosed with ADHD. Kindergarten and first grade were hard! We were blessed with a great teacher for second grade; she had patience and loved our son. He began to prosper and we were beginning to pinpoint his triggers. Then, I was given a project at work for Autism Awareness. Everything I read was describing my son! I talked to our pediatrician and he was referred for an Eval. He was diagnosed with Autism/ADHD at 8 years old. But, I wasn’t sad, I was relieved! There was a reason; there were answers. It was reassuring to hear much of what we had learned to do on our own, was right. He. is doing great now in third grade. He made A/B honor roll and received a citizenship award! Like Autism, our story is unique. The details of what happened during last three years would bring tears to your eyes; but, our story has a happy ending. I won’t say that all our hard times are behind us, but the path is smoother. There are a lot of people who are not educated about Autism, and they can ruin your day. For those they get it, it is a blessing! Since diagnoised, we are able to get the services that he needs. I am an advocate for talking about Autism. I wish someone had talked to me.

Alisa Logan
Benton, AR