Hello world. Welcome. So happy you took time out of your day to spend time with us. We appreciate that. Today’s blog is kind of a sensitive topic to me. Jayson is now five years old. He will be turning six in August. We have been on this autism journey, going on now for four years. When I think about Jayson’s future, does autism improve with age? A flood of emotions arise. I am so grateful for what God has done already and how far Jayson has come.
Can autistic child become normal
I am excited to see what God will do in the future. I picture so many things for Jayson, on his high school graduation day, he getting his diploma. I see him walking down the aisle getting married, eventually having his own children. Most importantly, his own TESTIMONY on the GRANDEST STAGE OF THEM ALL! I have SO SO SO many hopes for him. But then there are times when I see his challenges and wonder will these days that I dream ever come true. Will autism “go away?” This really came to me when my sister forwarded me a video clip from “For Peete’s Sake.” If you haven’t watched it, it’s a reality show on OWN network depicting the Peete family (Rodney Peete and Holly Robinson Peete). I love it because it shows the reality of autism.
Do I have autism still?
The struggles and victories that their 22 year old son, Rodney Peete Jr., has with autism. In one of the episodes, RJ is having a conversation with his mom and asks her “do I have autism still?” She responds by asking “do you feel like you still have autism?” He responds by saying “sometimes I do, but sometimes I don’t.” What an impactful exchange. I placed myself in Holly’s shoes and wondered how would I answer that question if Jayson and I were to ever have that conversation. Would I scream a resounding “NO” or would I, like Holly, turn the question back to him to answer? Something to think about, correct?
Can autism be cured
The simple answer is yes autism symptoms can go away. Let me be clear, most children with autism will have the disorder for their entire life. But, research has shown that 3-25% percent of children with autism will lose the diagnosis. This can be due to misdiagnosis or early intensive interventions “correcting” the condition. Children who have achieved remarkable progress are often labeled as “optimal outcome” by healthcare professionals. So how would I answer this if asked–do everything you can as a parent or caregiver to ensure you give your kiddo the best fighting chance to reach their optimal outcome.
I pray this gives you another perspective!
Stay well,
Your friend in Christ,
M.J.