Atayuki
I have decided to write this because I think sometimes Autism is misunderstood and I have great respect for people raising children who are autistic, Including my mother who is raising both my brother and I who have aspergers/ Sensory integration issues.
I am an adult now (20) When I was growing up Autism was not well known. Most the time Aspergers was blown off or misdiagnosed. My mom would fight saying she knew something was not right trying to get me help and all they did was blow her off saying she is just eccentric etc.
I had many issues growing up. I would start tantrums when I did not like the feel of certain clothes. I would want to wear the same thing over and over and would not be happy if I could not. I would not eat many foods. I seriously would only eat mac and cheese plain cheese pizza. I would not anything else for the longest time. My mom would go out of her way to get me food while we were out. My mom knew something was up and she kept fighting.
When I was 12 my mom had my little brother who had similar issues. He was delayed in many areas. By that time Aspergers was known or starting to be known. They at this time had birth to three come to the house. They were the one who diagnosed me and my brother.
Even after we both were diagnosed with this we had issues in school. The principal and teachers did not understand why we were getting help because we seemed to be doing just as well at the other kids. I had my brothers teachers arguing with my mom saying he is fine. Then I had one my teachers tell my mother that I am using it as an excuse. It is a very frustrating struggle. They just were not educated enough on the subject and had no understanding of it.
Now I am in college. Since I had a supportive mom I have overcome many of my issues. I am eating much more now. I use to never eat meat but now I am eating chicken and pork. I still have issues with percieving things and emotional things. I still have sensory issues but I have learned to adapt.
My brother is now 8 and he is getting help he needs. He is communicating much better. When he was younger he could not talk that well. He also had issues with communicating stories. He now can tell stores that make since. HE also is doing well in school. Both him and I have many friends. I have a boyfriend and am on my own. I am doing ok. IT still effects me sometimes but I am getting the help I need and things are going much better.
Now I am writing this for a couple reasons
1.) Parents who are struggling with people understanding teachers etc. DO NOT GIVE UP! Many people misunderstand things and I have respect for you all. I know it is hard. I know it was hard for my mom and still is.
2.) I want to give hope saying that if kids get the right attention etc they need that they can overcome and be normal functioning. It will never go away completely but there is hope. Many people grow up to be successful.
I hope this story helped someone or at least gave someone hope.
I wish you all luck! ....-nods and happily sighs- Thank you atayuki that alone makes my day and everyday i get a bad Autism/ AS day i just read your post sorry for not posting to you sooner
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