CJ just turned 4 and was diagnosed at 2 1/2 yrs old. His Dr. recommended we contact Early Invervention at age 2 because he only had use of 1 actual word. They came in and within 3 months of working with him suggested we have him evaulated for Autism. When this came, I was thinking they were going to suggest ADHD (which his doctor mentioned would probably be diagnosed at age 5). He has the energy level for 20 kids wrapped up in 1 body. He keeps us on our toes and running after him! As I've always been a little different myself, I just accepted that he was never going to be the "typical" kid before we even got the diagnosis. So there was no greiving period for me as I had never had any expectations besides him to be the best that he can. He's now in Preschool Disabled program at school and loves it. All of his teachers and aides have fallen in love with his enthusiasm and character. It really is a joy to see him progressing so well when most of the stories I read and the research I did seem to have focused on the negative sides of ASD. Yes, it's work and yes, he has his moments. But his smile always reaches his eyes and he's so loving. He's taught me to look at the positives in life and not dwell on the small stuff. Remember, even on our toughest days there is always a silver lining somewhere, you just have to look for it!!

Krissy DeFrancisco
Hammonton, NJ