Grateful to the people who look beyond a child's handicap

[Geordie]

Life has been hard on us for the past one year. My son was diagnosed with severe autism at age three and, since then, we have been afraid to take him out, especially on public transport.

We have been chased out of restaurants with awful comments, such as "he's a retard" and "why on earth do you bring such a child out", and uncomfortable stares from the public.

To my relief, my six-year-old daughter, who is not autistic, is able to explain her brother's illness in the face of such comments and reactions when he throws a violent tantrum on the train. She controls her tears well.

After many failures, we have managed to get my boy adapted to the crowd and public transport, which is a major achievement for us.

We wish to thank the many people who were gracious and polite, or who were critical, because they all made us persevere.

We have received kind and encouraging feedback. It was touching when someone told me: "The kids have done well, and you and your kids deserve one another. We're supporting you all the way."

Thank you to whoever sees autistic or handicapped children as deserving of a chance, and for giving the chance to my son, Aaron.

Christina Lee

This comes from a local forum letter I read while on my way to school.

I feel so hopeful that I hope to share with all of you here on AC.

TODAYonline | Voices | Grateful to the people who look beyond a child's handicap

 

[Margaretha]

That's a lovely story. thank you for sharing it.

 

[Arashi222]

I loved this story. It is true. Its so hard not only for the child with the issues but for the family too because its hard on them to keep on fighting through but they do or they crumble. Being a child of disability other than AS I find that saying I can't usually makes me work harder. Usually makes me strive for the best that I can be. Achievements come in small doses but none the less fantastical. I love the article.