My “Why” for autism advocacy.... In the first pic, I was a young mother of a six month old. My son Aaron had just been dedicated in church that day. We were so excited for him. Then a few months later, not long after his first birthday, Aaron’s speech DISAPPEARED. That began our journey on…
Tag: adults and autism
Letting Go and Letting Be….
I’m practicing “letting go” and “letting be”…Let me explain….. Aaron started walking with me a few weeks ago. Then the weather got colder, I took some time off from walking, and I didn’t ask Aaron to continue. Yes, he’s autistic, but he’s also 26 years old. I decided I wouldn’t pressure him about walking and…
“Wherever I Go, Aaron Goes”
My sons Bryant (driver) and Aaron. My youngest son, Bryant, just got his driver’s license a few months ago. Without hesitation, my oldest son, Aaron jumps right on the passenger side and rides with Bryant wherever he goes. This warms for my heart for so many reasons. My children (young men, I know) are both…
Spectrum Life, Banking and Loosening the Apron Strings
Last month, Aaron discovered his bank card wasn’t working. I called his bank and was assured his new card would be mailed by the end of December. I forgot about this issue until earlier this week. Aaron came to me and told me his card hadn’t been delivered to our home. Again, I told him…
Continue reading ➞ Spectrum Life, Banking and Loosening the Apron Strings
Autism, ADHD, and the African American Community
Oftentimes, in the African American community, we hear the words “Autism” and “ADHD” and immediately negative images come to mind. As a mental health professional and the mom of 2 amazing sons, one of whom has autism and the other has ADHD, part of my life’s work is to show there are other facets of…
Continue reading ➞ Autism, ADHD, and the African American Community
Dr. Who, Autism and Aaron
Paul tried to prepare me for my oldest son, Aaron’s, Christmas gift. The only clue he would give me is, “You guys have had a conversation about it.” Christmas Day came. Every gift I received was beyond thoughtful; this was probably the best Christmas I have ever had. I saw Aaron looking Paul’s way. Then…
PS5, Autism, and Teamwork
Most young folks love video games. But being isolated or less social because of COVID 19 has intensified the love and desire to play them. Aaron is no different. When he was laid off earlier this year, we were concerned as a family he would be isolated and as a result, experience emotional issues. The…
Confessions of an Autism/ADHD Mom
Since 1996, when my oldest son initially lost his ability to speak, I became a case manager of sorts: monitoring, linking, and ensuring that Aaron has what he needs to be happy and productive. When I became pregnant for the second time, I prayed for a “normal” child, one that would not experience so many…
Ham Steaks and Independence- Life Inside A Spectrum Family
I walked by my kitchen sink Thursday morning and spotted the usual item lying within it: a frozen ham steak. I smiled and kept walking. A little later I went back and snapped a pic. While many may look at this piece of meat and see just that, a piece of delicious pork, I see…
Continue reading ➞ Ham Steaks and Independence- Life Inside A Spectrum Family
Special Needs Parent Appreciation Month
August is Special Needs Parent Appreciation Month. I would like to take this opportunity to shout out my hubby Paul Pruden Jr for being a great special needs parent. He’s not a perfect guy or a perfect parent. That’s not what this post is about. Team Pruden has had to contend with 2 issues, autism…
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