Self-Determination and Quality of Life
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.
Ten Commandments of Parents with Kids on the Autism Spectrum
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.
Words
He was phenomenal. He looked incredible in his costume that I made for him. He knew every word of every line. He didn’t falter once. He didn’t freak out over the crowd or the noise or the flashes of the camera. Last night was a night I never thought would happen after his diagnosis of autism shortly before he turned three.
Self-Advocates Are Speaking Up About Having a Sweetie
Self-advocates discuss the kinds of messages that they received about sex while growing up and whether they feel that they get the necessary supports to have romantic relationships.
Go Jonathan!
My youngest brother Jonathan has evolved into a gifted runner and a tremendous athlete. He’s an amazingly inspiring marathon runner who shows me strength and courage everyday… and oh yea, he happens to be autistic.
Brotherly Bond
We’ve always been close and though he is clear across the world, I hope to always have our brotherly bond.
Becoming Whole: A Sibling’s Story
Standing in solidarity with Willie is the boldest statement I can make. I’m saying: not only is my brother worthy of love and belonging, not only is he uniquely gifted…he’s akin to me, and he’s my friend.
What Reading Self Advocate Blogs Does
Reading the blogs of autistic people is a way to realize that all this is possible and give you both hope that this will happen for your kid and ideas on how to help your kid make it happen.
Focus on Where You’re Heading
The feeling of success for my family varies from day to day. Our family life has been a journey with many ups and downs; however, it is important to focus on where you are heading and not where you have been. I see my family on a path to a bright future of success!
The Journey from Struggle to Strength
Throughout the nation, parents of children with autism and other developmental disabilities face many struggles navigating the array of information and service systems available to them.
