In Their Own Words
If you have a story you wish to share about your personal experience with autism, please send it to editors@autismspeaks.org. Autism Speaks reserves the right to edit contributions for space, style and content. Because of the volume of submissions, not all can be published on the site.
In Their Own Words: Prayers for Nick
By Karri Alberti
The other day someone asked me to ?say a little prayer that the Colts win the Super Bowl.? Was he kidding? As a parent of a child with autism, my prayers are reserved for my son. On the off-chance that there really is someone up in heaven that is listening to me, why would I pray for a Super Bowl championship (not that we aren?t fans ? we have held season tickets for more than 15 years)? No, my prayers are reserved for Nick. I?d rather pray that he talks in sentences. I?d pray that he makes a friend. I?d pray that he could have a conversation with me. I?d pray that he doesn?t have to put his fingers in his ears to block out the noise when we visit a museum, a movie or any indoor event. I?d pray that he would be able to read. I?d pray that he could live a normal life ? go to college, fall in love, have kids of his own. Read more.
By Karri Alberti
The other day someone asked me to ?say a little prayer that the Colts win the Super Bowl.? Was he kidding? As a parent of a child with autism, my prayers are reserved for my son. On the off-chance that there really is someone up in heaven that is listening to me, why would I pray for a Super Bowl championship (not that we aren?t fans ? we have held season tickets for more than 15 years)? No, my prayers are reserved for Nick. I?d rather pray that he talks in sentences. I?d pray that he makes a friend. I?d pray that he could have a conversation with me. I?d pray that he doesn?t have to put his fingers in his ears to block out the noise when we visit a museum, a movie or any indoor event. I?d pray that he would be able to read. I?d pray that he could live a normal life ? go to college, fall in love, have kids of his own. Read more.
Hanging My Hat on Hope
She hangs her hat on hope that, one day, the autism community will unite.
By Rose Ann Walsh
Getting From There to Here
A short but sweet educational success story - yes, you can get from there to here.
By David B. Cockrell
Ignorance is Not Bliss
This week's essay is written by a mother who has two kids with autism. She explains that while her teenaged daughter is essentially "clueless" when it comes to the opposite sex and socializing, ignorance is not bliss. While she wants to protect her daughter, it is necessary to teach her to socialize within a world that she may not find comfortable.
By Nianya Cambridge
Welcome to the Community
In this week's essay, the mother of a newly diagnosed boy tells how an encounter with another parent at a special needs gymnastics class first caught her off-guard, but then prompted her to accept her son's autism and feel welcomed by the community.
By Alysia Butler
I Choose My Battles
In this week's essay, the mother of a teenager who has autism recounts a trip to Target to purchase a specific helmet that he wanted. She explains how, due to his autism, she often lives more in "his world" than in hers and for that reason, it is necessary to choose her battles wisely.
By Theresa Waldron
Holding Patterns
This week's essay, written by the mother of an eight-year-old boy who has autism, recounts a recent challenging experience at the airport. She acknowledges that while there are some places she prevents bringing him, families cannot spend their lives in a "holding pattern" due to autism.
By Katie Donohue Bevins
Those Kids
This week's essay, written by the captain of the top Walk Now for Autism Speaks team, explains why she wants her son who has autism to be accepted for the person he is and not simply labeled one of "those kids."
By Liane Kupferberg Carter
The Key to Success
In this week's essay, a mother shares how early diagnosis was the key to success for her now 11-year-old daughter who has autism. Since her diagnosis at 15 months, she has not only excelled in school, athletics and art, but has also become much more comfortable in social situations.
By Jessica Nolde
Cheese-less Pizza and Autism: How One Mother Found Joy and Meaning
A mother shares her story about how a small choice made years ago over pizza, transformed her way of thinking. This first step helped her to leave her comfort zone and taught her how to overcome obstacles.
By J. Lorraine Martin
What I am Thankful For
In celebration of Thanksgiving, a mother of two reflects upon what she is thankful for – namely, the special relationship that her typical daughter shares with her brother who has autism.
By Leslie Kimmelman
You've Got a Friend in Me
For years, Jake's parents introduced him to every sporting event possible, with no success. Then, Jake, a seven-year-old boy who has autism met Anthony, a teenager who not only taught him to love hockey, but what it means to have a true friend.
By Nancy K.
Wishing and Hoping
While cleaning her house, a mother finds a poem, "My Wish for Sean," she had written a year ago about her son who has autism. In her essay, she relates the passing of time to how her outlook of her son's future has changed.
By Katie Donohue Bevins
How She Became My Teacher
A mother shares the moment when her daughter who has autism became her teacher – and showed her that her dreams didn't die, they simply changed.
By Melissa Novak
The Disconnector
The teenage sister of a boy who has autism recounts an instance when she realized that he isn't "disconnected," but possibly more connected than the rest of us.
By Claire Savage
A Good Time to Have Autism
The mother of a young man who has Asperger's Syndrome explains how in thirty years, society has grown to appreciate the contributions of people who have autism.
By S.K. Whang
What to do After the Blackout
A mother tells how after her son was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, caring for him and adjusting to his needs became the most noble profession she could have undertaken.
By Monica Holloway
Embracing the Best Parts of Being an Aspie
An adult who has Asperger's Syndrome shares how having autism, although it has challenged him throughout his life, has greatly honed his musical, scientific, computer and mathematical skills. .
By Kenneth Whyman
Autism in Ghana – I Want My Child to be Happy
Imagine the challenges you would encounter as a parent of a child, newly diagnosed with autism, while living in Africa. A mother in Ghana shares the struggles she faced following her daughter's diagnosis and what her hopes are for the future.
By Martha Afriyie
The Silver Lining
On a 90 degree day with "1000% humidity," what would inspire someone to scrape paint off of his garage door? The father of a boy who has autism shares one of the many ways we try to re-order the world to suit our kids.
By Russ Levine
A Grandparents Day Tribute
In honor of Grandparents Day, members of our community who have a loved one with autism submitted tributes about their child's grandparent or personal experience as a grandparent of a child on the spectrum.
Walgreens – This Place Really DOES Change Everyone
An Autism Speaks volunteer shares how a visit to the Walgreens Distribution Center gave her hope that her son with autism would one day be not only gainfully employed, but accepted by his co-workers.
By Diana Yeisley
My Summer as an Autism Speaks Intern
An Autism Speaks summer intern shares her experience working on the Global Autism Public Health (GAPH) Initiative within the science department. While collecting data, she discovered the struggles that families who have a child with autism in underdeveloped regions face, further inspiring her work and passion for the cause.
By Alice Simcoe-Matthews
"Adam", a Parent's Perspective
The father of a teenager with Asperger's Syndrome shares his reaction to the film Adam, a love story about a young man who has autism. He explains how viewing the film caused him to reflect on his concerns regarding his own son's future.
By Phillip Hain
Living With Asperger's
A teenager who was recently diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome shares how although it has challenged her life, it has also positively impacted her musical talents.
By Breanna Brown
Kathryn the Great
A mother discusses the changes brought about by her teenage son's first romance. She relates that when he fell in love, her son with autism became more selfless and considerate. His relationship improved his social skills and has further motivated him to succeed in school.
By Shelley Hendrix
The Autism Scholarship
A teenager who has a cousin with autism explains how the creation of an autism scholarship program would benefit students with autism and allow their families to achieve a better quality of life.
By Stuart Marsh
Turning Tragedy into Hope
A mother tells how having a son with autism positively affected her family's dynamic and brought out the best in his siblings. She explains how his untimely passing allowed them to help find a cure for autism, through the Autism Tissue Program, showing that hope can come from tragedy.
By Laura Walsh
When Angels Walk the Earth
A high school senior describes how having a younger sister with autism has shaped her life. The author is an active fundraiser for the Westchester/Fairfield Walk Now for Autism.
By Maggie Dunne
A Mother's Day Tribute
Members of our community who have a loved one with autism submitted tributes about their wife, mom or personal experience as a mother of a child on the spectrum, in honor of Mother's Day.
I Beat Autism
A teenager shares his memories of growing up with autism. He details how rigid therapy helped him recover from autism, to the point that he is now a "typical" high school senior – one involved in sports and activities.
By Jason Ross
My Life as a Young Adult with Autism
A young woman with autism who will soon move into an apartment for adults with disabilities shares her story. In her essay, she details her best qualities, personal interests and challenges that she has overcome.
By Corinne Tribou
My Little Monster
A college student shares an assignment she wrote about living with Asperger's Syndrome, explaining how it is both her worst enemy and her best friend.
By Margaret Dixon
Heroes and Daddy
A father tells how a classroom assignment completed by his eight-year-old son with autism reminded him what really defines a "hero."
By Mark McGrath
The Little Professors
A high school student shares an essay she wrote in the eighth grade to explain to her teachers some of the challenges associated with living with autism. She wanted to prepare them for what was to come when her identical twin brothers (living with ASD) became their students.
By Danielle Comeau
Jake's Song
A mother tells how her formerly non-verbal son showed great progress by singing a song about the presidents that she had taught him.
By Faith Simmons
Las Vegas, Kansas. Hmmmm ...
A father tells how his son, who was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome at the age of 20, became the flagman for one of the largest kart races in the world and penned a book about his experiences.
By James Likens
Christmas Miracles
A mother tells how her son with autism's reaction to a Christmas song shows how far he has come over the past eight holiday seasons.
By Christine Bakter
My Twin Sons
The mother of college-aged twin sons with autism celebrates their successes and emphasizes the value of early treatment for children.
By Denise Dear
David's Club
A mother tells how her son with autism spread a message of autism awareness and acceptance by starting an Autism Speaks Student Club at his middle school.
By Kathy McKibbin
Lessons from Imagiville
A young man tells how growing up with autism inspired him to create art that would promote autism awareness and acceptance of people who are different.
By D.J. Svoboda
Ben Meets his “Guitar Hero”
The mother of a young man on the spectrum recounts about how her son learned to play guitar by listening the music of Willie Nelson, who he later had the pleasure of meeting backstage.
By Cindy Ninesling
Life with Adam
A high school senior tells how his younger brother who has autism inspired him to become more involved in promoting autism awareness.
By Eric Goldstein
I'm in Here
A writer shares her poem, "I'm in Here," about people with autism.
By Linda Yoccodine Gustoso
Justin's Touchdown
The father of a boy with autism tells about his son's successful second season of football, during which he scored a touchdown.
By Robert Civitano
Autism and Religion
A rabbi shares his insights on integrating children with autism into communities of faith.
By Rabbi Heiligman
Emmy for Autism -- Miracle-Minded Media
Miracle Project founder Elaine Hall tells how her inspirational theatre program for children with autism led to the creation of the documentary Autism:The Musical, which recently won two Emmy awards.
By Elaine Hall
A Teenage Sister's Struggle
A mother of two teenagers (one typical, one with autism) explains how her 14-year-old daughter struggles to accept her "different" brother in a society that encourages fitting in.
By Caryn Sullivan
A Grandparents Day Tribute
In honor of Grandparents Day, staff and volunteers who have a loved one with autism submitted tributes about their child's grandparent or personal experience as a grandparent of a child on the spectrum.
Can You Hear Me Now?
The older brother of a child with autism writes about his experience growing up with a sibling who needed a great deal of attention, and how his experiences led him to form a sibling support group.
By Patrick Fasano
The Crucial String
A mother recounts her 15-year-old son with autism's upbringing, comparing it to beautifully playing an instrument that is missing a crucial string.
By Liane Kupferberg Carter
Can You Hear Me Now?
The older brother of a child with autism writes about his experience growing up with a sibling who needed a great deal of attention, and how his experiences led him to form a sibling support group.
By Patrick Fasano
A Father's Day Tribute
Staff and volunteers who have a loved one with autism submitted tributes about their husband, dad or personal experience as a father of a child on the spectrum, in honor of Father's Day.
Follow Your Feelings
A mother tells how she found success in simply following her feelings when trends in treatment didn't seem appropriate for her daughter with autism.
By Kathryn Wylie
Trevor, Olie, Alex, and I: Sharing My Passion With My Son
A father tells how sharing his passion for hockey helped him to better connect with his son who has autism.
By Russell Levine
Brady's Perfect Day
A father tells the story of his son with autism's fifth birthday party, which he aptly describes as "Brady's perfect day."
By Derrick Long
Understanding Comes With Experience
A mother describes how raising her son with autism has taught her the valuable lessons of acceptance, tolerance, and openmindedness.
By Michelle D. Jones-Brown
"What's that like?"
A mother describes how her perception of living with autism has changed in the few years since her daughter's diagnosis.
By Christine Mayer
The Performance of a Lifetime
A grandmother recounts a memorable Christmas concert when her fifteen year old granddaughter with autism performed for the first time with her high school chorus.
By Maria Trillo
The $240 Balloon Animal
A mother recounts her daughter with autism's memorable fifth birthday party, which yielded a now infamous balloon "monkey."
By Jessica Wilson
The Language of Childhood
An aunt tells how her nephew with autism has given her son a broader understanding of the abilities, talents and challenges of others through their unique friendship, which rarely involves speaking.
By Marie Green
Anthony's Act of Courage
A father tells how his son with autism truly harnessed his courageous side, after gaining a role in a community theatre production.
By Anthony Pater
Finding Hope in "Sensory Overload Heaven"
A mother tells how a family trip to Disney World ("sensory overload heaven") showed her that that if you're open to it, you'll find hope for your child's future in the most unlikely of places.
By Lisa Vaillancourt
These Are a Few of My Favorite Things
A mother recalls the day when her five year old neurotypical daughter brought an Autism Speaks puzzle piece pin to school to teach her classmates what it means to have a sibling with autism.
By Darlene Rowley
A Hole in the Sky
A mother recounts the story of how her son with autism achieved every golfer's dream -- the coveted hole-in-one.
By Kathie Harrington
Celebrating Autism
A mother recounts the story of a very special election, in which her daughter with autism was chosen by her peers to be their homecoming queen.
By Michele Sweeney
The Power of Music – Jack's Journey Out of Silence
A mother writes that she never realized the power of music until she saw its power in helping her son with autism spectrum disorder connect to the world.
By Francine M. Andersen
The Day He Carried the Flag
A mother describes her feelings of patriotism and hope when her son with autism was invited by the school's principal to carry the school's “special flag” during its Veteran's Day Ceremony.
By Lauri Brett
Bringing Kendall Home
A mother tells how the simple, yet inspiring words spoken by her neurotypical daughter inspire her to fight to "bring home" her daughter with autism.
By Jessica Wilson
A Different House Tour
A mother describes her typical yet different home environment with two children with autism, where "the optimistically titled 'Auditory Processing Super Pack' resides next to Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders.”
By Julie Fay
Leftovers
An educator tells the story of a boy with autism who learns to connect with his classmates on the playground.
By Ann Densmore
Finding an Obsession We Both Like
A mother writes about the process of finding something her son can focus on that the entire family can enjoy together.
By Cathy Bowen
From Play-Doh Comes Hope
A mother shares how her son's interest in Play-Doh has helped him connect to the world around him.
By Francie Hogan
Coach of the Year
The father of a boy with Asperger's shares a letter that he wrote requesting that the Pop Warner football coach who patiently worked with his son be designated "Coach of the Year."
By Robert Civitano
There Ought to Be a Law
A ten-year-old shares his award-winning essay about why people with autism, including his younger brother, deserve a law guaranteeing them free medical and educational assistance.
By Austin Koring
Our "One of a Kind" Family
A mother talks about raising her "one of a kind" family of seven, which includes three sons with severe autism, and typical twin daughters.
By Lori Collins
Trophies
A father tells how his six year old son with autism won a trophy at his school's science fair. While this was a tangible recognition of his accomplishment, it also represented the strides and progress he has made.
By John Felker
A Mass to Remember
A mother tells how her fourteen year old son with autism was confirmed in the church, thanks to the help of his family and some special people within the church.
By Kim Fiore, "Johnny's Angels" team captain, Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism
No Ribbon for Alexa
A mother realizes that in a home with autism, all the children have qualities that make them unique and all deserve recognition.
By Paula Scheider
Supreme Court Gives Schools Too Much Credit
Gary Mayerson, director of the Autism Speaks Federal Legal Appeals Project and Alison Singer, Executive Vice President of Autism Speaks reflect upon the aforementioned Supreme Court hearing and what it might mean for parents of children with disabilities.
By Gary Mayerson and Alison Singer
Finding Balance
Barry M. Prizant, Ph.D., shares his insight in a keynote speech presented at the Southern New England Walk Now for Autism Kick-off, emphasizing the importance of finding balance.
By Barry M. Prizant
The Most Important Choice
A mother of a toddler with autism tells how one important decision made the biggest difference in her family's life.
By Paula Scheider
A Day of Baseball in the Park
A mother tells how an invitation to play baseball in the park reminded her that having autism shouldn't limit the activities her son can enjoy.
By Elli Memoli
A Portrait of Autism
A father submits a photo of his four year old son at the Lincoln Memorial, showing that a picture often illustrates more than words can explain.
By Paul Mark
My Journey with Autism
A new Walk Now Chair tells how an episode of "The View" inspired her to start a walk in her community.
By Crystal Frost, Chair, Oklahoma Walk Now for Autism
Raising Awareness in My Neighborhood
A Walk Now Co-chair explains how raising awareness in her town helped her see the true kindness of her neighbors.
By Ellen Cicconi, Co-chair, Wheeling Walk Now for Autism
My Special Brothers
A thirteen year old girl tells what makes her two brothers with autism special
By Kathleen Buick
My Brother Vinnie
A sister describes how her brother with autism brings people together.
By Lucy Ireland
Gigi's House
The mother of a three-year-old boy with autism describes how her friend's new house, architecturally different from its more traditional neighbors, but magnificent in its own right, helped her see her son as exceptional.
By Joan Drummond Olson
Blazing the Trails for Kids with Autism
A parent tells how her twin sons discovered competitive running.
By Robyn Schneider
Ben's Graduation
A father of a high school graduate with autism leaves a lasting mark on students.
By Steve LeClaire
Living with Asperger's Syndrome - Part 2
A teenager recounts her memories of growing up with Asperger's
By Hannah Fjeldsted
Autism Speaks 400 has Special Meaning for One Family
A parent tells how NASCAR inspires her child with autism.
By Mimi Harris
Living with Asperger's Syndrome
A teenager recounts her memories of growing up with Asperger's
By Hannah Fjeldsted
Silent Language of Love
A mom tells how sometimes less is more.
By Cammie McGovern
Peeking Under the Garage Door of Autism
A Missouri parent tells her story of hope.
By Shawnna Robinson
An Asperger's Perception of Friendship
A teen with Asperger's writes about living on the spectrum.
By Scott Goldfarb
For My Brother Joey
A brother creates a button to raise awareness and funds.
By Nicholas Lombardi
Finding the Beautiful in Autism
A father writes of his daughter's successes.
By Roy Richard Grinker
Mom Asks for Understanding
A mother explains how strangers often misjudge her child with autism.
By Mary Tepas
Perspective
A poem for Jaren
By Barbara Spires
A Journey of Inches
A father tells about his teenage son with high-functioning autism, and his many accomplishments.
By Alex Cullison
Facing the Moment of Truth
A mother finds a painful answer to the question: ‘Is It Autism?'
By Tamar Bihari
Jesse's Story
The first essay in this series, written by a mother of a boy on the high-functioning end of the autistic spectrum whose success in overcoming his fear on the slopes opened up a whole new world for himself and his family.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Two essays about the importance of early diagnosis of autism.
Why We Walk
Why We Walk: Ten Years of Marching for Matty
The father of a teenager with autism tells how he became involved with the Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism as a team captain. He recounts the reasons that he, his family and friends have been "Marching for Matty" for ten years and encourages others to get involved in Autism Speaks Walk program.
By Mark Wallace, Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism team captain
Why We Walk: Parker's Journey and the Amazing Race
On Sat. April 4, the spring season for Autism SpeaksU kicks off in State College, Penn. with the fourth annual “We Are … Curing Autism Now 5K Race/3K Walk” which raised over $160,000 in 2008. Read more about the Penn State event in our latest “Why We Walk” essay, written by the mother of a child with autism, who has been an active participant all four years.
By Robin Bierly
Why We Walk: Why We Run
Four members of "Team Autism Speaks," recount their experiences with the NYC Marathon and tell why they run to promote autism awareness and fundraising.
Why We Walk: Lindsay Haley
The 11-year-old sister of a teenager with autism shares the speech she presented at the Long Island Walk Now for Autism Kick-off. She recounts the reasons that her family has been fundraising for Autism Speaks' Walk program for nine years and encourages others to get involved.
By Lindsay Haley
Why We Walk: Hot Flying Crackers
The aunt of a four-year-old boy with autism tells how her family's strength and her nephew's sense of humor inspire her to Walk Now for Autism.
By Erin Beavers
Why We Walk: Jessica Wilson
A mother of two girls (one typical, one with high-functioning autism) shares the speech she presented at the Greater Boston Walk Now for Autism Kick-off. She not only shares anecdotes about life with her family, but also offers unique fundraising tips for walkers.
By Jessica Wilson
Why We Walk: Autism Speaks Banner Flies Atop Mt. Rainier
A father tells how raising a child with autism motivated him to challenge himself to inspire others, especially his children. He is serving as a co-chair of the British Columbia Walk Now for Autism and recently climbed Mt. Rainier to spread autism awareness.
By John Carinha
Why We Walk: Reflections
A devoted walker reflects upon his years of participation, detailing the reasons that he keeps coming back to "Walk Now for Autism".
By Cao Anh Quan
Why We Walk: "But Mom..."
A mother describes her seven year old daughter's transformation from a reluctant walker who would rather stay in bed to an enthusiastic supporter of her brother with autism.
By Judith Ursitti
Why We Walk: A Family Effort
A grandmother who has two grandsons with autism tells how her entire family makes autism awareness its mission.
By Pam Anderson
Why We Walk: A Lesson for a Teacher
A West Virginia walk volunteer explains what motivates her to participate.
By Leah Stout
Why We Walk: Something about his Eyes
A father writes about his son and how he began to understand him.
By Hassan Peterson
Why We Walk: What Does Not Destroy Me Makes Me Stronger
A high school junior writes about what she has learned from her brother with autism.
By Elizabeth Boyd
Why We Walk: Devman: Our Angel, Our Everything, Our Son
A mother tells how her son Devin inspired her to walk for autism.
By Brittany Wiggins
Why We Walk: Enthusiasm Became Contagious
A new walk team captain tells how to make your walk team successful.
By Amy Capobianco-Diaz
What Do You Think?
We regularly ask the Autism Speaks community to share its perspectives on important concerns. Read below to see what you've had to say on topics ranging from ABA therapy to dealing with strangers. And share your suggestions for future “What Do You Think?” features by emailing us here.
She hangs her hat on hope that, one day, the autism community will unite.
By Rose Ann Walsh
Getting From There to Here
A short but sweet educational success story - yes, you can get from there to here.
By David B. Cockrell
Ignorance is Not Bliss
This week's essay is written by a mother who has two kids with autism. She explains that while her teenaged daughter is essentially "clueless" when it comes to the opposite sex and socializing, ignorance is not bliss. While she wants to protect her daughter, it is necessary to teach her to socialize within a world that she may not find comfortable.
By Nianya Cambridge
Welcome to the Community
In this week's essay, the mother of a newly diagnosed boy tells how an encounter with another parent at a special needs gymnastics class first caught her off-guard, but then prompted her to accept her son's autism and feel welcomed by the community.
By Alysia Butler
I Choose My Battles
In this week's essay, the mother of a teenager who has autism recounts a trip to Target to purchase a specific helmet that he wanted. She explains how, due to his autism, she often lives more in "his world" than in hers and for that reason, it is necessary to choose her battles wisely.
By Theresa Waldron
Holding Patterns
This week's essay, written by the mother of an eight-year-old boy who has autism, recounts a recent challenging experience at the airport. She acknowledges that while there are some places she prevents bringing him, families cannot spend their lives in a "holding pattern" due to autism.
By Katie Donohue Bevins
Those Kids
This week's essay, written by the captain of the top Walk Now for Autism Speaks team, explains why she wants her son who has autism to be accepted for the person he is and not simply labeled one of "those kids."
By Liane Kupferberg Carter
The Key to Success
In this week's essay, a mother shares how early diagnosis was the key to success for her now 11-year-old daughter who has autism. Since her diagnosis at 15 months, she has not only excelled in school, athletics and art, but has also become much more comfortable in social situations.
By Jessica Nolde
Cheese-less Pizza and Autism: How One Mother Found Joy and Meaning
A mother shares her story about how a small choice made years ago over pizza, transformed her way of thinking. This first step helped her to leave her comfort zone and taught her how to overcome obstacles.
By J. Lorraine Martin
What I am Thankful For
In celebration of Thanksgiving, a mother of two reflects upon what she is thankful for – namely, the special relationship that her typical daughter shares with her brother who has autism.
By Leslie Kimmelman
You've Got a Friend in Me
For years, Jake's parents introduced him to every sporting event possible, with no success. Then, Jake, a seven-year-old boy who has autism met Anthony, a teenager who not only taught him to love hockey, but what it means to have a true friend.
By Nancy K.
Wishing and Hoping
While cleaning her house, a mother finds a poem, "My Wish for Sean," she had written a year ago about her son who has autism. In her essay, she relates the passing of time to how her outlook of her son's future has changed.
By Katie Donohue Bevins
How She Became My Teacher
A mother shares the moment when her daughter who has autism became her teacher – and showed her that her dreams didn't die, they simply changed.
By Melissa Novak
The Disconnector
The teenage sister of a boy who has autism recounts an instance when she realized that he isn't "disconnected," but possibly more connected than the rest of us.
By Claire Savage
A Good Time to Have Autism
The mother of a young man who has Asperger's Syndrome explains how in thirty years, society has grown to appreciate the contributions of people who have autism.
By S.K. Whang
What to do After the Blackout
A mother tells how after her son was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, caring for him and adjusting to his needs became the most noble profession she could have undertaken.
By Monica Holloway
Embracing the Best Parts of Being an Aspie
An adult who has Asperger's Syndrome shares how having autism, although it has challenged him throughout his life, has greatly honed his musical, scientific, computer and mathematical skills. .
By Kenneth Whyman
Autism in Ghana – I Want My Child to be Happy
Imagine the challenges you would encounter as a parent of a child, newly diagnosed with autism, while living in Africa. A mother in Ghana shares the struggles she faced following her daughter's diagnosis and what her hopes are for the future.
By Martha Afriyie
The Silver Lining
On a 90 degree day with "1000% humidity," what would inspire someone to scrape paint off of his garage door? The father of a boy who has autism shares one of the many ways we try to re-order the world to suit our kids.
By Russ Levine
A Grandparents Day Tribute
In honor of Grandparents Day, members of our community who have a loved one with autism submitted tributes about their child's grandparent or personal experience as a grandparent of a child on the spectrum.
Walgreens – This Place Really DOES Change Everyone
An Autism Speaks volunteer shares how a visit to the Walgreens Distribution Center gave her hope that her son with autism would one day be not only gainfully employed, but accepted by his co-workers.
By Diana Yeisley
My Summer as an Autism Speaks Intern
An Autism Speaks summer intern shares her experience working on the Global Autism Public Health (GAPH) Initiative within the science department. While collecting data, she discovered the struggles that families who have a child with autism in underdeveloped regions face, further inspiring her work and passion for the cause.
By Alice Simcoe-Matthews
"Adam", a Parent's Perspective
The father of a teenager with Asperger's Syndrome shares his reaction to the film Adam, a love story about a young man who has autism. He explains how viewing the film caused him to reflect on his concerns regarding his own son's future.
By Phillip Hain
Living With Asperger's
A teenager who was recently diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome shares how although it has challenged her life, it has also positively impacted her musical talents.
By Breanna Brown
Kathryn the Great
A mother discusses the changes brought about by her teenage son's first romance. She relates that when he fell in love, her son with autism became more selfless and considerate. His relationship improved his social skills and has further motivated him to succeed in school.
By Shelley Hendrix
The Autism Scholarship
A teenager who has a cousin with autism explains how the creation of an autism scholarship program would benefit students with autism and allow their families to achieve a better quality of life.
By Stuart Marsh
Turning Tragedy into Hope
A mother tells how having a son with autism positively affected her family's dynamic and brought out the best in his siblings. She explains how his untimely passing allowed them to help find a cure for autism, through the Autism Tissue Program, showing that hope can come from tragedy.
By Laura Walsh
When Angels Walk the Earth
A high school senior describes how having a younger sister with autism has shaped her life. The author is an active fundraiser for the Westchester/Fairfield Walk Now for Autism.
By Maggie Dunne
A Mother's Day Tribute
Members of our community who have a loved one with autism submitted tributes about their wife, mom or personal experience as a mother of a child on the spectrum, in honor of Mother's Day.
I Beat Autism
A teenager shares his memories of growing up with autism. He details how rigid therapy helped him recover from autism, to the point that he is now a "typical" high school senior – one involved in sports and activities.
By Jason Ross
My Life as a Young Adult with Autism
A young woman with autism who will soon move into an apartment for adults with disabilities shares her story. In her essay, she details her best qualities, personal interests and challenges that she has overcome.
By Corinne Tribou
My Little Monster
A college student shares an assignment she wrote about living with Asperger's Syndrome, explaining how it is both her worst enemy and her best friend.
By Margaret Dixon
Heroes and Daddy
A father tells how a classroom assignment completed by his eight-year-old son with autism reminded him what really defines a "hero."
By Mark McGrath
The Little Professors
A high school student shares an essay she wrote in the eighth grade to explain to her teachers some of the challenges associated with living with autism. She wanted to prepare them for what was to come when her identical twin brothers (living with ASD) became their students.
By Danielle Comeau
Jake's Song
A mother tells how her formerly non-verbal son showed great progress by singing a song about the presidents that she had taught him.
By Faith Simmons
Las Vegas, Kansas. Hmmmm ...
A father tells how his son, who was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome at the age of 20, became the flagman for one of the largest kart races in the world and penned a book about his experiences.
By James Likens
Christmas Miracles
A mother tells how her son with autism's reaction to a Christmas song shows how far he has come over the past eight holiday seasons.
By Christine Bakter
My Twin Sons
The mother of college-aged twin sons with autism celebrates their successes and emphasizes the value of early treatment for children.
By Denise Dear
David's Club
A mother tells how her son with autism spread a message of autism awareness and acceptance by starting an Autism Speaks Student Club at his middle school.
By Kathy McKibbin
Lessons from Imagiville
A young man tells how growing up with autism inspired him to create art that would promote autism awareness and acceptance of people who are different.
By D.J. Svoboda
Ben Meets his “Guitar Hero”
The mother of a young man on the spectrum recounts about how her son learned to play guitar by listening the music of Willie Nelson, who he later had the pleasure of meeting backstage.
By Cindy Ninesling
Life with Adam
A high school senior tells how his younger brother who has autism inspired him to become more involved in promoting autism awareness.
By Eric Goldstein
I'm in Here
A writer shares her poem, "I'm in Here," about people with autism.
By Linda Yoccodine Gustoso
Justin's Touchdown
The father of a boy with autism tells about his son's successful second season of football, during which he scored a touchdown.
By Robert Civitano
Autism and Religion
A rabbi shares his insights on integrating children with autism into communities of faith.
By Rabbi Heiligman
Emmy for Autism -- Miracle-Minded Media
Miracle Project founder Elaine Hall tells how her inspirational theatre program for children with autism led to the creation of the documentary Autism:The Musical, which recently won two Emmy awards.
By Elaine Hall
A Teenage Sister's Struggle
A mother of two teenagers (one typical, one with autism) explains how her 14-year-old daughter struggles to accept her "different" brother in a society that encourages fitting in.
By Caryn Sullivan
A Grandparents Day Tribute
In honor of Grandparents Day, staff and volunteers who have a loved one with autism submitted tributes about their child's grandparent or personal experience as a grandparent of a child on the spectrum.
Can You Hear Me Now?
The older brother of a child with autism writes about his experience growing up with a sibling who needed a great deal of attention, and how his experiences led him to form a sibling support group.
By Patrick Fasano
The Crucial String
A mother recounts her 15-year-old son with autism's upbringing, comparing it to beautifully playing an instrument that is missing a crucial string.
By Liane Kupferberg Carter
Can You Hear Me Now?
The older brother of a child with autism writes about his experience growing up with a sibling who needed a great deal of attention, and how his experiences led him to form a sibling support group.
By Patrick Fasano
A Father's Day Tribute
Staff and volunteers who have a loved one with autism submitted tributes about their husband, dad or personal experience as a father of a child on the spectrum, in honor of Father's Day.
Follow Your Feelings
A mother tells how she found success in simply following her feelings when trends in treatment didn't seem appropriate for her daughter with autism.
By Kathryn Wylie
Trevor, Olie, Alex, and I: Sharing My Passion With My Son
A father tells how sharing his passion for hockey helped him to better connect with his son who has autism.
By Russell Levine
Brady's Perfect Day
A father tells the story of his son with autism's fifth birthday party, which he aptly describes as "Brady's perfect day."
By Derrick Long
Understanding Comes With Experience
A mother describes how raising her son with autism has taught her the valuable lessons of acceptance, tolerance, and openmindedness.
By Michelle D. Jones-Brown
"What's that like?"
A mother describes how her perception of living with autism has changed in the few years since her daughter's diagnosis.
By Christine Mayer
The Performance of a Lifetime
A grandmother recounts a memorable Christmas concert when her fifteen year old granddaughter with autism performed for the first time with her high school chorus.
By Maria Trillo
The $240 Balloon Animal
A mother recounts her daughter with autism's memorable fifth birthday party, which yielded a now infamous balloon "monkey."
By Jessica Wilson
The Language of Childhood
An aunt tells how her nephew with autism has given her son a broader understanding of the abilities, talents and challenges of others through their unique friendship, which rarely involves speaking.
By Marie Green
Anthony's Act of Courage
A father tells how his son with autism truly harnessed his courageous side, after gaining a role in a community theatre production.
By Anthony Pater
Finding Hope in "Sensory Overload Heaven"
A mother tells how a family trip to Disney World ("sensory overload heaven") showed her that that if you're open to it, you'll find hope for your child's future in the most unlikely of places.
By Lisa Vaillancourt
These Are a Few of My Favorite Things
A mother recalls the day when her five year old neurotypical daughter brought an Autism Speaks puzzle piece pin to school to teach her classmates what it means to have a sibling with autism.
By Darlene Rowley
A Hole in the Sky
A mother recounts the story of how her son with autism achieved every golfer's dream -- the coveted hole-in-one.
By Kathie Harrington
Celebrating Autism
A mother recounts the story of a very special election, in which her daughter with autism was chosen by her peers to be their homecoming queen.
By Michele Sweeney
The Power of Music – Jack's Journey Out of Silence
A mother writes that she never realized the power of music until she saw its power in helping her son with autism spectrum disorder connect to the world.
By Francine M. Andersen
The Day He Carried the Flag
A mother describes her feelings of patriotism and hope when her son with autism was invited by the school's principal to carry the school's “special flag” during its Veteran's Day Ceremony.
By Lauri Brett
Bringing Kendall Home
A mother tells how the simple, yet inspiring words spoken by her neurotypical daughter inspire her to fight to "bring home" her daughter with autism.
By Jessica Wilson
A Different House Tour
A mother describes her typical yet different home environment with two children with autism, where "the optimistically titled 'Auditory Processing Super Pack' resides next to Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders.”
By Julie Fay
Leftovers
An educator tells the story of a boy with autism who learns to connect with his classmates on the playground.
By Ann Densmore
Finding an Obsession We Both Like
A mother writes about the process of finding something her son can focus on that the entire family can enjoy together.
By Cathy Bowen
From Play-Doh Comes Hope
A mother shares how her son's interest in Play-Doh has helped him connect to the world around him.
By Francie Hogan
Coach of the Year
The father of a boy with Asperger's shares a letter that he wrote requesting that the Pop Warner football coach who patiently worked with his son be designated "Coach of the Year."
By Robert Civitano
There Ought to Be a Law
A ten-year-old shares his award-winning essay about why people with autism, including his younger brother, deserve a law guaranteeing them free medical and educational assistance.
By Austin Koring
Our "One of a Kind" Family
A mother talks about raising her "one of a kind" family of seven, which includes three sons with severe autism, and typical twin daughters.
By Lori Collins
Trophies
A father tells how his six year old son with autism won a trophy at his school's science fair. While this was a tangible recognition of his accomplishment, it also represented the strides and progress he has made.
By John Felker
A Mass to Remember
A mother tells how her fourteen year old son with autism was confirmed in the church, thanks to the help of his family and some special people within the church.
By Kim Fiore, "Johnny's Angels" team captain, Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism
No Ribbon for Alexa
A mother realizes that in a home with autism, all the children have qualities that make them unique and all deserve recognition.
By Paula Scheider
Supreme Court Gives Schools Too Much Credit
Gary Mayerson, director of the Autism Speaks Federal Legal Appeals Project and Alison Singer, Executive Vice President of Autism Speaks reflect upon the aforementioned Supreme Court hearing and what it might mean for parents of children with disabilities.
By Gary Mayerson and Alison Singer
Finding Balance
Barry M. Prizant, Ph.D., shares his insight in a keynote speech presented at the Southern New England Walk Now for Autism Kick-off, emphasizing the importance of finding balance.
By Barry M. Prizant
The Most Important Choice
A mother of a toddler with autism tells how one important decision made the biggest difference in her family's life.
By Paula Scheider
A Day of Baseball in the Park
A mother tells how an invitation to play baseball in the park reminded her that having autism shouldn't limit the activities her son can enjoy.
By Elli Memoli
A Portrait of Autism
A father submits a photo of his four year old son at the Lincoln Memorial, showing that a picture often illustrates more than words can explain.
By Paul Mark
My Journey with Autism
A new Walk Now Chair tells how an episode of "The View" inspired her to start a walk in her community.
By Crystal Frost, Chair, Oklahoma Walk Now for Autism
Raising Awareness in My Neighborhood
A Walk Now Co-chair explains how raising awareness in her town helped her see the true kindness of her neighbors.
By Ellen Cicconi, Co-chair, Wheeling Walk Now for Autism
My Special Brothers
A thirteen year old girl tells what makes her two brothers with autism special
By Kathleen Buick
My Brother Vinnie
A sister describes how her brother with autism brings people together.
By Lucy Ireland
Gigi's House
The mother of a three-year-old boy with autism describes how her friend's new house, architecturally different from its more traditional neighbors, but magnificent in its own right, helped her see her son as exceptional.
By Joan Drummond Olson
Blazing the Trails for Kids with Autism
A parent tells how her twin sons discovered competitive running.
By Robyn Schneider
Ben's Graduation
A father of a high school graduate with autism leaves a lasting mark on students.
By Steve LeClaire
Living with Asperger's Syndrome - Part 2
A teenager recounts her memories of growing up with Asperger's
By Hannah Fjeldsted
Autism Speaks 400 has Special Meaning for One Family
A parent tells how NASCAR inspires her child with autism.
By Mimi Harris
Living with Asperger's Syndrome
A teenager recounts her memories of growing up with Asperger's
By Hannah Fjeldsted
Silent Language of Love
A mom tells how sometimes less is more.
By Cammie McGovern
Peeking Under the Garage Door of Autism
A Missouri parent tells her story of hope.
By Shawnna Robinson
An Asperger's Perception of Friendship
A teen with Asperger's writes about living on the spectrum.
By Scott Goldfarb
For My Brother Joey
A brother creates a button to raise awareness and funds.
By Nicholas Lombardi
Finding the Beautiful in Autism
A father writes of his daughter's successes.
By Roy Richard Grinker
Mom Asks for Understanding
A mother explains how strangers often misjudge her child with autism.
By Mary Tepas
Perspective
A poem for Jaren
By Barbara Spires
A Journey of Inches
A father tells about his teenage son with high-functioning autism, and his many accomplishments.
By Alex Cullison
Facing the Moment of Truth
A mother finds a painful answer to the question: ‘Is It Autism?'
By Tamar Bihari
Jesse's Story
The first essay in this series, written by a mother of a boy on the high-functioning end of the autistic spectrum whose success in overcoming his fear on the slopes opened up a whole new world for himself and his family.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Two essays about the importance of early diagnosis of autism.
Why We Walk
Why We Walk: Ten Years of Marching for Matty
The father of a teenager with autism tells how he became involved with the Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism as a team captain. He recounts the reasons that he, his family and friends have been "Marching for Matty" for ten years and encourages others to get involved in Autism Speaks Walk program.
By Mark Wallace, Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism team captain
Why We Walk: Parker's Journey and the Amazing Race
On Sat. April 4, the spring season for Autism SpeaksU kicks off in State College, Penn. with the fourth annual “We Are … Curing Autism Now 5K Race/3K Walk” which raised over $160,000 in 2008. Read more about the Penn State event in our latest “Why We Walk” essay, written by the mother of a child with autism, who has been an active participant all four years.
By Robin Bierly
Why We Walk: Why We Run
Four members of "Team Autism Speaks," recount their experiences with the NYC Marathon and tell why they run to promote autism awareness and fundraising.
Why We Walk: Lindsay Haley
The 11-year-old sister of a teenager with autism shares the speech she presented at the Long Island Walk Now for Autism Kick-off. She recounts the reasons that her family has been fundraising for Autism Speaks' Walk program for nine years and encourages others to get involved.
By Lindsay Haley
Why We Walk: Hot Flying Crackers
The aunt of a four-year-old boy with autism tells how her family's strength and her nephew's sense of humor inspire her to Walk Now for Autism.
By Erin Beavers
Why We Walk: Jessica Wilson
A mother of two girls (one typical, one with high-functioning autism) shares the speech she presented at the Greater Boston Walk Now for Autism Kick-off. She not only shares anecdotes about life with her family, but also offers unique fundraising tips for walkers.
By Jessica Wilson
Why We Walk: Autism Speaks Banner Flies Atop Mt. Rainier
A father tells how raising a child with autism motivated him to challenge himself to inspire others, especially his children. He is serving as a co-chair of the British Columbia Walk Now for Autism and recently climbed Mt. Rainier to spread autism awareness.
By John Carinha
Why We Walk: Reflections
A devoted walker reflects upon his years of participation, detailing the reasons that he keeps coming back to "Walk Now for Autism".
By Cao Anh Quan
Why We Walk: "But Mom..."
A mother describes her seven year old daughter's transformation from a reluctant walker who would rather stay in bed to an enthusiastic supporter of her brother with autism.
By Judith Ursitti
Why We Walk: A Family Effort
A grandmother who has two grandsons with autism tells how her entire family makes autism awareness its mission.
By Pam Anderson
Why We Walk: A Lesson for a Teacher
A West Virginia walk volunteer explains what motivates her to participate.
By Leah Stout
Why We Walk: Something about his Eyes
A father writes about his son and how he began to understand him.
By Hassan Peterson
Why We Walk: What Does Not Destroy Me Makes Me Stronger
A high school junior writes about what she has learned from her brother with autism.
By Elizabeth Boyd
Why We Walk: Devman: Our Angel, Our Everything, Our Son
A mother tells how her son Devin inspired her to walk for autism.
By Brittany Wiggins
Why We Walk: Enthusiasm Became Contagious
A new walk team captain tells how to make your walk team successful.
By Amy Capobianco-Diaz
What Do You Think?
We regularly ask the Autism Speaks community to share its perspectives on important concerns. Read below to see what you've had to say on topics ranging from ABA therapy to dealing with strangers. And share your suggestions for future “What Do You Think?” features by emailing us here.
What Do You Think: Memories of an Autism Pioneer, Dr. Bernard Rimland
What Do You Think: How Others Respond to Autistic Behavior
What Do You Think: Has ABA Therapy Worked For You
What Do You Think: Is Autism an Epidemic?
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