My True Story

There is a story that goes like this: A couple is planning a fabulous trip to Rome. They do all the research, draw up the itinerary, pack their suitcases and learn a few simple Italian words. When the plane lands, the couple arrives in Switzerland. The country is just as beautiful and the experience just as exciting, but it's a totally different trip than they had planned.

That's what it's like having a child diagnosed with a disorder like autism.

I am divorced and remarried to Jim. I have the love and support of family and friends. It has been hard to navigate school policies, organize fundraisers, work full time and travel a distance to therapy appointments that last two hours with my son Crew, who is autistic. It has been tough and exhausting, but not unbearable. My angel on earth, the one I could not do all of this without, is my husband Jim. Sure, we bicker as any couple might. However, Jim gives me warmth, love and determination that is so rare. He has been my rock and Crew's best friend.

Crew has made huge strides. It has taken many hours and setbacks, and much research, to get him where he is today. I work full time from home with an embroidery business that I started with a machine bought from Wal-Mart. I can't believe the high-tech equipment I now have, though I work so much more than I used to. The money I earn pays directly for Crew's weekly therapy.

My organization Crew's Voice has done much in the past year to help families whose children have been diagnosed with autism. My group helps families navigate the research. I help reassure them while directing them to programs. My goal is to raise more money and ultimately have a therapy center in Pawling, New York, to help other children with autism lead effective and happy lives.