Our lives were forever changed in 1996 when my daughter Grace was born. After having 2 sons it felt great to have a female in the family to do girlie things with for a change. For the first year of her life I took an assortment of pictures (almost daily) to capture her growth. As a result I noticed she was not developing as other children her age. Imagine my surprise, at the age of 1 1/2 to find out my concerns wasn’t just my imagination but something I’d never heard of before, Autism. After doing research I also discovered autism typically affected boys so this diagnosis bewildered me. However, I also knew I didn’t have time for a petty party. Therefore I went into a different type of “Mommy Mode”. It was my responsibility to do whatever it took to seek and provide her with the care she deserved. Working toward her independence was very important to me, because she’s worthy of my best and the best life had to offer. Getting her the proper education was one source but sensory therapy was the best remedy in aiding with her development. Not only have I’ve been touched by Grace but many others have as well. She’s constantly smiling and entering others space, which warrants me pulling her back because not everyone can take her type of warmth. I’m constantly asked, “Is she always this happy”? The answer, “Yes, unless she’s sick”. When I look back over the past 18 years of her life I see a strong vibrant young lady. She still prefers to use one word sentences but I still encourage her to use more. Her strongest attribute is responding to verbal commands, meaning she learns through a process called auditory learning. Thank God, for blessing me with the awesome responsibility of raising one of His angels. I’ve cried many tears but I can’t stay there for long simply because I have work to do for this Jewel I’ve been blessed with. Every day of her life I continue to pray for her to be blessed beyond measure.

LaGatha F
Baton Rouge, LA