About Beyond 22

Parker and Jonathan are 24 months apart and both were diagnosed with autism 6 months apart. Both are so different from each other. Parker is high functioning and Jay not only has autism but also auditory processing disorder, OCD, echolalia, and trouble communicating by speech.

 

I have had a long journey with both boys navigating countless school mandated IEP meetings, therapies, doctor's appointments, and uncomfortable social situations from grocery shopping to birthday parties, and so much more.

 

To make it more interesting, we did this all while being stationed in Germany, England, and back here in the United States of America. We have experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly but, with every experience we made an effort to succeed. 

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When they were elementary school age, I went with them to school. I was there nearly everyday. I wanted to learn what the teacher was showing them so I could go home and do it there. I felt like if we all worked together to teach them, I could keep it consistent and they would progress better.

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I had picture boards all over the house, I had one on the refrigerator so they could go to it and show me what they wanted to eat. I had one in the bathroom so they would know what they had to do first, brush their teeth, wash their face. I had timers set for every task. We had daily living charts, a daily skills board, and a homework board. My house was a mini school. 

Finally, after graduating High School, we thought we made it. There were no more IEP meetings, but also there was no more therapy, no more socializing, and no more support.  We were faced to find these on our own - Parker and Jay were now 22 years old. 

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From a mother's standpoint, it has all been a blur. I am not always sure how I got here, all I know is I'm here now...my boys are all grown up. They are now young men!  What now?  Employment wasn't quick, and I would be lying if I say it was easy.  Both boys struggled securing employment.  Often times they started out volunteering.  A few times we thought the business would employ them but, wouldn't after their trial periods.  Fortunately, they have been able to secure employment with The Brick Kitchen and Bar, a local pizzeria. 

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Now that they do have jobs, I am tackling the next worry.  Where will they live?

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I have to start doing something about their future before something happens to me and I will not be able to die in peace knowing that they may get sent to a horrible group home ran by the state.

 

I know I am not alone and like you I want to give my kids a chance to be all they can be and hopefully help others in the same situation.

 

The reality is there is not very many businesses that will hire a special needs individual, and there are not very many programs that are individualized to each person's interest and goals.  There also seems to be a lack of vocational and academic training in our small town.  

 

I was struck with the dilemma, it must be created.  With your help it can come to fruition. 

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