I think some of the most important lessons learned will be the ones that I learned from Tony; how he grew and how he helped my son grow as well. He’s never met my son, but maybe one day they will meet. My son and I are very grateful for the lessons he taught him through me.
It took a lot of work to get to where I am today but because I was able to self-advocate and take some risks, I now have a career and a life of my own.
James McCarten from the Special Needs Alliance provides an overview of special needs trusts.
But I hope that we don’t cheat ourselves out of the opportunity this field gives us to become more human. It must never be said that people with disabilities do not contribute to society. Indeed, the people I know have taught me very well.
As family members, we all want our loved ones to be in an educational environment that allows them to thrive – one that makes them feel safe, accepted and included.
Through service learning projects, young individuals from kindergarten to college use what they learn in the classroom to solve real life problems. This also allows them use practical applications to become actively contributing citizens and community members through the service that they perform.
The following excerpt is from “Navigating College: A Handbook on Self-Advocacy Written for Autistic Students from Autistic Adults.” This handbook, produced by the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network and the Autism NOW Center, offers tips and suggestions about various issues that people with autism and other developmental disabilities may encounter in college.
Take a few minutes today to reflect on what you are proud of in your life. And don’t be shy – share your story with someone else.
This is an award that means a lot to me because it is proof that all my hard work and dedication to my profession has paid off, and that individuals do appreciate me.
Mari Nosal demonstrates her pride as a parent by sharing 10 ways that others can effectively support and interact with individuals with autism and their families.
