My Autistic son: (Introduction) Episode 1. A day in my life "The beginning"

My Autistic Son: Episode 1 - "A Day in My Life: The Beginning"

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A Time of Joy and Wonder

As I reflect on the birth of my son, JJ, 19 years ago, a wave of emotions engulfs me. My heart swells with an immense pride that only a father can understand. I remember observing his tiny fingers curled tightly around mine, wondering what he would grow up to sound like, guessing how tall he might become, or whether his hair would stay as full as it was then.

Digging into My Roots

To fully understand my story, it's crucial to delve into the roots. My beginnings were humble, perhaps even humbler than most. Heck, we didn't just flirt with poverty; we were practically married to it! My family comprised four siblings, one of whom had mental struggles intertwined with a dash of anger issues. I also stood witness to an assortment of mental conditions within my extended family, triggering a million-dollar question—"Could my family's mental health have contributed to JJ's condition"?

You see, JJ's mother had lost a brother to a severe mental illness. So was it her fault? Or did the genesis of my son's Autism connect back to me? Was it tied to that frightening day when he was three and had to be rushed to the hospital due to an adverse reaction to his immunization?

Why Me?

Here's a curveball for ya: before meeting JJ's mother, I was a regular guest at the state prison. I landed behind bars after a tense street brawl involving an eager-to-stab miscreant and me. Now that's not something you read every day, eh? I was found guilty but somehow my lawyer nudged me towards probation instead of another trial and\or an immediate prison sentence. Nonetheless, when I messed up on probation (a whole different story), I served 40 months of which I completed two years and four months.

Life's Sweet Moments

After being released from prison, life took a sweet turn. I met my son's mother, and we embarked on a wonderful journey together. We tied the knot, launched a successful business, and purchased a cozy nest where we could build our future. Now I stood on the path of righteousness, walking hand-in-hand with my beautiful wife, eagerly awaiting the birth of our son.

The Eagle Has Landed

The day JJ was born, our lives changed forever. By his second birthday, JJ was familiar with his ABCs and could count—everything a proud parent could hope for. Our little genius was a beacon of hope and joy. Then, something shifted. By age five, he struggled with basic communication, ceased feeding himself, and resisted potty training. The once bubbling chatterbox was now eerily quiet.

JJ's Diagnosis

Our hearts were heavy as we sought professional help, and our worst fears were confirmed. JJ was diagnosed with Autism spectrum disorder accompanied by a developmental delay. Like many parents, we were unprepared and unsure of what this meant for our precious boy. Dive headfirst into the research we did—that’s a fact!

Coping With Autism

Living with an autistic child is like solving a Rubik’s cube in the dark—puzzling, frustrating, and filled with surprising turns. Our adorable JJ had a knack for waterlogging DVD players and making indoor "floods." Breaking toys was his favorite pastime, quite the opposite of what you usually read about children with ASD. But JJ wasn't just a "label," he was our son, and we loved him to bits.

Understanding ASD

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) signifies a broad range of conditions associated with challenges in social interactions, communication, and repetitive behaviors. At the same time, folks like JJ may exhibit unique learning patterns and a heightened focus. But let's not forget, that underneath these conditions, they are just children needing love, patience, and understanding.

What’s Next?

Phew! That's a lot to take in, eh? Trust me, you'll want to stick around for the many layers of my journey with my endearing son, JJ. So, let's call this a wrap for now and I'll catch you on the flip side for Episode 2 - "A Day in my Life: JJ and A Whole New Level."

"He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." Ps. 147:3

It's alright to feel broken. Just remember, every crack is a place where the light gets in!