This is my son Max. He was born May 6, 2004. He quickly developed just like his big sister…. She thought he was the most beautiful and amazing being in this world, just like we did. Just like we still do. Just after Max turned one, his father and I worried about his development. His doctor tried to convince us that he was just fine and we needed to simply wait it out. That wasn't a good enough answer for us so we sought other answers. After several ear infections, we were told that he might simply be delayed because of hearing loss. So we enlisted the help of a speech therapist. After working with her, we realized that it was much more than that. We were referred to a developmental specialist. He was tested in one afternoon and a week later we were told that he had Autism. This woman, who had met him once, who came into my home and told me that my son had autism, told me that "it wasn't that bad… his life wasn't over. It would be okay!" Not once, even in my darkest thoughts did I think his life was over...it was just going to be harder. Through many up and downs he continues to rise to the occasion. My son is an amazing little man. He is healthy, he is smart and he is incredibly quirky, however he has taught me how to love, have patience, empathy and respect in all aspects of my life. He has shown me how to be a better person, mom and friend to everyone in my life. He continues to learn, thrive, grow and inspire others. Even at 9 years old, he has lived more than most of us. He is an amazing young man and I am blessed to be his mom!

Shannon
White lake, MI