My son Christian was 17 months old. It was the month I was attending my college course in pediatrics for Occupational Therapy. One day I was sitting in my 4 hour class listening to my instructor go over autism and sensory processing disorders. On that day I realized my son was on the autism spectrum. I had no idea how I got through class that day, but it was the day that changed my life. Everything Christian did from loss of eye contact, not playing with toys appropriately, late walker, not talking yet, lack of communication, and the stimming made sense at that moment. Right away I tried to get help, but everything seemed so limited. The school district would come out for 30 minutes a week and he got to go to speech for one 30 minute session a week. I knew it wasn't enough. I realized quickly the best early intervention for my son was to gain all the knowledge I could and begin working with my son myself. I graduated and decided not to work, but to stay home and work with my son. We set up amazing home therapies daily with sensory integration, therapeutic listening, sensory schedule, and ABA therapy. I took continuing courses in ABA, speech, PECS, and hippotherapy, sensory integration, and everything that could educate me to help my son. His gross motor is amazing, he follows directions, is very affectionate, has great eye contact, minimal behavioral issues, no problems transitioning, has a variety of foods he will eat, and my angel child. He is 5 and we still have a long road ahead, but everyday is a joy and I love being his mommy and therapist. I thank God that I chose to go to school for Occupational Therapy to prepare me for our journey before I even gave birth to my son. I also look forward to the day to use my degree and the education I have received to be a blessing to parents and help them on their journey.

Julie Barnett
Uniontown, OH