My son, 25, has Autism. He is very high functioning, but what a journey it has been! Challenging alot of times, as I was widowed when was 13. He is absolutely thriving now, and just completed his third year of Carpentry School. I took care of my much younger cousin with Autism, from 18 months old until he was 7. Like with my son, I was always present in the home with Early Intervention, speech therapists, and occupational therapists. When he entered play groups and pre-school, I was his shadow. Being an Autism Mom and caregiver for my young cousin have been my life's greatest rewards!