Autism took away not only a Career, but the ability to even hold a job. I was just gaining steam with my career, a corporate merchandiser, when John took a turn for the worse. This was my dream job, it allowed me to travel, work across the state, and for me, the best part, work alone. I could schedule my work load around my family,connect with my home office via computer and fax and as long as everything was done, my job was my business. I worked on a year into John's disability before I saw how much both my son and my employer was suffering. I left gracefully, with the hope to return someday. Someday never came. I tried small jobs, working part time flipping burgers and such to help with the income, until it just became impossible.

I guess in a way I work more today than I ever have..yet don't make a dime. I work with parents full time. I do free therapy sessions for parents who cannot pay, and teach gfcf cooking classes. I do all I can for our local autism community, and seldom take a day off. If only this would pay! I just can't charge parents who are so strapped for things I know and can teach them. I blew way too much money paying people who in the end, were no help at all.

I want and I need to return to work in the next couple of years. My hope is to return to teach at a developmental delayed preschool that is in the works for our area. I used to long to be "A mindless sale girl behind the make up counter" in the department store...but that's not for me. That would be a great escape, but it's not my reality. And they are not mindless either, they work hard and I know that....one I know..even has an autistic child..sigh..but then again...these days...who doesn't!?!

My question..do you think you are better off today having lived through autism that you would have been?

I am, you bet I am. I would have gotten caught up in the life style of new this, better house, more stuff, and totally missed out on the real meaning of life. How about y'all??