“I was a single Mom to Leo for 4 and a half years prior to Andy entering our lives. He is the only father figure Leo has known, and what makes their bond especially beautiful is that Leo is Autistic, and primarily non-verbal, yet Andy’s love for him is, and has always been unconditional. As a mother, I have a lot of worries about the future for our boy. But the love, acceptance and understanding woven throughout their relationship is beautiful.
Recently, I was having a conversation with my Andy. ‘Life is so ambiguous, with so many questions that have yet to be answered for Leo.’ I said.
Andy’s gaze slowly turned towards our boy, his concerned expression gently giving way to one filled with peaceful certainty.
‘It always amazes me,’ he began, ‘how even today there is still so much negativity surrounding Autism.’
‘One of the best things about Leo,’ he remarked, ‘is how genuine he is…When he’s happy, he lets you know. When he’s upset, he lets you know… His emotions are pure and there is no pretense. The sad part is that people will say that this is abnormal. When really, this is how more people should be.’
I listened, as Andy went on, his words giving me strength with each passing syllable.
‘Somewhere along the way someone said, Leo is going to be different. We’re going to wire him differently…Not everyone will understand him, but that’s okay. And even if he only touches these two people’s lives, he will have made a difference… Of course there will be frustrating times ahead. But we will never allow it to affect his quality of life. And if this boy, who faces constant challenges, can wake up smiling every day…he’s going to be okay.’ ”
Submitted by Ellie Whetzel
