I used to work in a residential home for adults with autism. I had a special bond with one of the individuals Rachel. She had the heart of gold and a smile worth a million laughs. Rachel had another challenge besides being autistic, she was also nonverbal. Rachel and I connected right away and I took every shift I worked to give her that extra time that she looked for. I helped her overcome some challenges she faced so that she would feel more comfortable going out in public, I would take her grocery shopping, swimming, to the farm I lived on, antique tractor show, walks in the park etc. Rachel also loved car rides, when she would have a rough day she would also ask me for that car ride and she would play with the radio as she loved music and she would put her hand out the window and use the air on her hand for sensory calming. I loved working with Rachel. I formed a way to communicate with her and she understood that. When Rachel didn't feel good she would always come to me for comfort and I could always tell it in her eyes. Unfortunately due to some personal conflicts I had to leave the job, I always felt guilty as I didn't get to say bye to Rachel and explain to her. One of my coworkers Victoria worked with her in the day program and would give me updates and tell me how she was and would give Rachel messages for me and would tell me how Rachel would lighten up and she could tell Rachel knew exactly it was me. I got to see her once in the store after I left and she came to me as if I had never left. I miss her dearly now and wish that I could work with her again. I hope that she is well. Rachel is amazing and I will always fight for autism because of her. Love you Rachel where ever you maybe today.

Amanda
Oxford, MA