I read the story about going to France and ending up in Holland. It was my first step in understanding how a parent deals with a son with Autism. My first reaction was to scream at my wife and those who dared tell me that MY SON was not like the other kids. I thought well he's probably part Def or he just isn't picking up things as fast as his Sisters. I would not accept my kid had such an issue. I wanted to blame someone for this horrible fate. Then my wife told me about a class that the School puts on for parents of Autistic Children.. Again, I didn't think I needed such a thing. It was just a big misunderstanding. After all, I know my son and I know nothings wrong. I couldn't have been more mistaken. I thank all those parents and the psychologists who showed me that I was partly right. My son wasn't the issue..It was me. I needed to learn how to adjust to his behaviors and learn how to be ready to be by his side and do what a father does for his child. I learned to be his guide and be his rock when he stumbled and sometimes crashed.. He still has his melt downs and I have mine, but I will tell you that Its not bad or horrible dealing with this issue. Its just learning how to adjust and be little more patient. SO in the end.. Hey I didn;t get to France, but having a great time here in Holland.. If you are new to Autism, Please make it your mission to learn as much as you can and be open to what the pro's are saying.. You wont regret it..

John
Costa Mesa, CA