My almost-23 year old severely autistic son Ben and I were walking on a favorite path along the shore of Lake Erie in Cleveland when I saw the very pretty jogger running our way. Passing us, she gave a big
Father and Sons
Jake came along for this Ben weekend and it made for a beautiful Father’s Day. — Me, Jake — and Ben doing his avant-garde posing. On Saturday, I posted this pic to Facebook, with the caption, “Ben has eclectic taste
Family Affair
Memorial Day weekend brought a bunch of Ben’s Aunts, Uncles and Cousins for the long weekend in Cleveland. Ben alternated between happiness (we think he loved it when everyone descended upon his house) to loud annoyance (he does NOT like
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
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
Some Pics…
A few photos from recent Ben visits…
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
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
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
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