Pawned Virtue - #wattys2015 BK4 TPBS - Completed 1st draft

Thank you for reading

Thank you for reading the previous chapter. Many would have skimmed through looking for anything to do with the meet and greet between them all (some probably did).

Why? Simple.

Society dictates what we think and what we feel. Whether we like it or not our actions are governed by the teachings we bave through life and for many that means different is wrong and something to be feared. If you took anything from that chapter (as many of you did) then I hope that it's the fact that when you see a child acting out in public that there may just be underlying problems and a parent or guardian who's at their wits end from lack of sleep and or support. Oh but don't get me wrong, being special needs doesn't mean all behaviours can be explained away, on the contrary, my little boy has the cheekiest look in his bright blue eyes when he's being naughty. I just have to deal with discipline in a different way in order to ensure he doesn't shut down.

I gave you a glimpse into the life of an autie family but there is so much more. Boys are diagnosed much earlier than many girls. Most girls aren't diagnosed until they're around the age of 8. Boys... well I knew for sure when my son was 2 that he was learning things differently. He was reading for a start. At 3 he could read any primary grade books you put in front of him. Now at 8 he reads above highschool level and I'm so damn proud of him. However! There are many things he struggles with and will continue to do so for many years.

We ourselves are so very very blessed. Our son is verbal. What that means is that he has a voice and with the right guidance he's joining our speaking world. Many families aren't blessed with this. They will never hear a voice ask for a drink or something to eat. They will never hear the words "I love you" and although they can see the love their child has for them, expressing it is a trial for them all.

Resources for autism are expensive. Extremely expensive. Throw the words 'special needs' around a product and it immediately becomes a money spinner. I don't know anyone with unlimited funds who can pay for everything their child may need through life... I know that I don't. And.. well that's why I went public with my writing with the aim of publishing. I wanted not to have to worry about the things my son needs, don't get me wrong, he definitely doesnt go without but it'd be nice go and buy something for myself knowing that it won't hurt the budget.. on the other hand I'm a really great saver! lol We pay $140 an hour for our son's speech therapist and I can tell you right here and now that woman is spectacular and worth twice if not more than that. Then there's OT ($150/hr for ours) and Paediatrians ($95 regardless of how long we see him) and... I won't go on or I'll be here all evening.

Yes you can expect some referencing to autism through out my work but this will be the only story with more full on info at this point... and what better way to educate than in a way that people want to read?

Thank you from all autie (special needs) parents everywhere for being willing to learn. Hugs xxx

PS... My son is now 11 and our journey continues xxxx