Thursday, June 9, 2011

A Day in the Life

Andrew was seven years old when David was diagnosed. It was a difficult time for all of us, but I originally underestimated the effect that the diagnosis would have on Andrew. I did not think that he was really old enough to understand what was happening, until several weeks later when he asked if David had the type of "handicap" (a word that I don't recall having used) that would allow us to park closer to the store. Maybe some additional explanation is required, I thought at the time.

Andrew has always shown wisdom beyond his years, especially pertaining to David. He has written the following essay for Quest Above and Beyond, a gifted and talented summer school program offered by our local school district. The assignment was to write about an important event in life and this essay is Andrew's submission for the class. 
 
A Day in the Life
By Andrew
Autism. It means nothing to the average person. Although I am not the average person because of David. David is not the average person. The world will know of the word Autism. Because of David.

Autism is a disease of major effect. It makes someone lack social rules so you do not learn words at the normal speed. It can make people be a little quieter with strangers. David can break the rules a little bit. To be like he should be.

My major scar is not physical, yet emotional. Hearing David had Autism scared me and confused me. What was Autism and how could I help. If I could help. If anything can help at all.

I learned that I can help David with daily things. David can help himself with daily things. We can help each other with daily things. And we know that together.

Now David has shown me the meaning of recovery. He has shown the world freedom. He will show the world the meaning of Autism.

10 comments:

  1. What a wonderful post and what a great brother you are!

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  2. Great post, really enjoyed it!!

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  3. Andrew, you show wisdom beyond your years. It's not everyone inflicted with autism who has a brother who is as understanding or as helpful as you are. David is very fortunate to have you as his brother and teacher.

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  4. Andrew,
    You wrote such a thought provoking and inspirational blog. It is so fantastic to be able to hear from you about your profound love for your brother. He is lucky to have someone as special as you in his life. I'm sure that years from now when your brother is looking back and reading this blog, he will be greatly moved by those words which come directly from your heart. Thank you for sharing that with us. And, as you said, you and David HAVE shown me the meaning of Autism: LOVE
    Much love,
    Katie

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  5. Kathy, what a blessing you have in Andrew. A maturity beyond his years and a love that is amazing. Andrew, it is so wonderful how you care for your brother. I'm sure it is irritating at times, but you are always aware that he has autism and you try to understand. You will be a more compassionate adult because of your experience - and the world can surely use more of that! Thank you for sharing your thoughts - you should continue to write!

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  6. Andrew - what an amazing and strong brother you are. David is lucky to have someone as special as you in his life.

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  7. Andrew, David is so lucky to have such a loving and thoughtful brother. You do not have to worry about David's future because he will be fine with your love and kindness leading him through life.XOXO Annie

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  8. Fantastical piece of writing there ol' chap, truly was a great joy to read.

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  9. XOXO Annie Fo - it rhymes :)

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  10. She's BACK! She's back in the saddle again!!! Thanks for the giggles so full of insight. Hope David is swimming soon.

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