When my son was diagnosed with Autism and an extreme sensory disorder at 16 months, they told me many things to be aware of in the future — things like, "Don't expect him to start speaking til' maybe 6 or 7 years old at the earliest" and "He may never want to hug or kiss you." They also told me that he does not know what danger is, and he has a high threshold for pain, so he may injure himself badly and not know it. These are things that would break any parent's heart and scare them half to death at the same time.
After a few weeks of testing, they shared with me his saving grace: They said my son was one of the most stubborn and headstrong little boys they had ever worked with. When his mind was set, there was NO changing it. He has worked very hard and has struggled through adversities that I can only see from the outside. He is now six years old and can speak full sentences. He spends half his day in regular ed 1st grade and has been in a horsemanship program for three years now. He begins each and every day with hugs and kisses, and is one of the most lovable kids you could ever meet. He has deified what all the doctors, therapists, and teachers said he would be capable of over and over again.
He has taught me so much about not letting others expectations of you define your abilities, but it's not only me he teaches. Many parents of children like Rodeo have approached us and asked if his story is true — if the happy boy in front of them was really previously known as one of the hardest children in school. When I say yes, they say Rodeo gives them hope for the future of their little one.
Halualoa, HI
