Happy Ben = Happy Mother’s Day

Happy Ben = Happy Mother’s Day

This weekend, Ben was relaxed and in a great mood pretty much every minute — which Karen said was the best possible Mother’s Day present.        

Those Weren’t the Good Ol’ Days: Eesinnuh, a “New” Old Ben Story

Those Weren’t the Good Ol’ Days: Eesinnuh, a “New” Old Ben Story

I just looked at this for the first time in many years, having dug it out for a friend, and what a trip down (traumatic) memory lane.  In February of 2002, Ben was eight, and this was the first thing

Would Removing Our Son’s Severe Autism Really Be Best?

Would Removing Our Son’s Severe Autism Really Be Best?

For the second time, John Elder Robison has given me new insight into my severely autistic son, Ben, and I’m not sure I like it. The first time was nine years ago, through his first book, Look Me In The

With Severe Autism, Just Getting Sick is Complicated

With Severe Autism, Just Getting Sick is Complicated

I remember my dad advising me about doctor’s visits, especially to be as specific and thorough as possible when describing symptoms — good, solid and maybe obvious advice. Like so many things with severe autism, “obvious” is a luxury unbestowed.

Budget Freak Show in Illinois

Budget Freak Show in Illinois

As the Illinois political freak show drags on — the State is now closer to NEXT year’s budget deadline than the one they already missed in July — the painful writhing of those most in need continues. In a nutshell

Shopping Spree, Ben-Style

Shopping Spree, Ben-Style

Sometimes Ben will accompany us – or more accurately, we’ll try to keep up as he lopes through the store – into Whole Foods for “a treat.” But more often, we’ll drop Karen off and go get gas for the

In The Zone

In The Zone

Ben completely focused on the music in his favorite “listening room,” the back seat of our car, especially while we (by request) “drive fast.” At that moment yesterday, also by request, it was Nickel Creek on the stereo.

Musical Inspiration via Recycling?

Musical Inspiration via Recycling?

Ben’s “chore” as we’re packing up and getting ready to take him back to his house at visit’s end, is to take the recycling to the chute. Not that he needs inspiration to sing, but yesterday this seemed to spur

Our Daily Reminder

Our Daily Reminder

The headline is, The Frighteningly Few Housing Options for Adults with Autism. Stories with similar headlines are becoming an almost daily occurrence. At least the crisis is being publicized even if we are currently light-years from solutions. “Autism Awareness” now