The verdict is in....

[ourlittlemonkey]

Well it has been FOUR weeks now since we participated in the 'complex behavioural assessment' and I am finally at the point where I can talk about it without crying, so it is time to journal out some thoughts.  At the conclusion of the assessment, Rylan was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Rylan has ASD.  We officially are a family with a

Comments

[dujour]

A shock, to be sure. But such a huge door has just opened for you and your family. No more guessing, no more comparing, and no more feeling like something's wrong. Nothing's wrong; it's different. From our years of conversation here, I am overwhelmed with respect and admiration for you and the way you have done everything possible to provide "normal" for your family when it has been so difficult.

As for high functioning autism, my Godson, also high-functioning, now 20, is doing great at mechanical engineering in college. He's happy. His mom is happy. He's quiet, but he does have friends, he does have a life, and he's found his niche. Keep that in mind.

I vividly remember being in public with them when he was young. He would become over-stimulated and blow, and his mother had to lie on him in the floor until he calmed down. I stood by with papers that I would hand to people explaining the isssue so they would know what was going on. It was hard for a while, but with a diagnosis comes acceptance and the loss of the burden of uncertainty.

A huge hug from me for you all.

[ourlittlemonkey]

Thank you! So good to hear the story of your Godson. Success stories like that give me high hopes for the future...