My daughter, Ylime Zobeida Lopez, (she's not a big fan of her name, so prefers to be called "Beba"), was officially diagnosed having AUTISM when she was only 2 years old. It was devastating news, especially not knowing much about it, but at least now I knew what I was dealing with.
At age 5 she told me, "Mommy, I have Autism, Autism doesn't have me". I knew I was looking at a WINNER. She has overcome many obstacles, and still has many more coming at her as she gets older. Uncontrollable tantrums, repetitive movements, constant repetition of full length movies, (playing all the parts & sound effects), problems with socializing, and lots of confusion, just to name a few.
On Bebas 13th birthday, I received yet another blow. She was diagnosed with LUPUS. Due to her autism, she doesn't process many things in the same way that you or I would. Pain is one of those. So I have trained myself to observe her every move, behavior, actions and reactions. Most of the time, I will know that she is not feeling well, having pain, migraines, or a lupus flare up, even before she does. By the time her brain processes that she is in pain, she's already an 8 on the pain scale. Steroid Infusion treatments and Chemotherapy have been taking place since then. She doesn't mind, She loves the fact that all the nurses continually fight over who will be taking care of her.
She has always seen herself as a Princess. So, after having participated in her cousin, Mariah's Quinceañera, (Sweet 15 in latin cultures), she decided "I WANT MY QUINCEAÑERA". With the help of my family, church members and friends, on July 28, 2012, My daughters dream came true. PRINCESS BEBA came to life.
This was such an impacting experience for everyone involved in "BEBAS WORLD". She has become more social and interactive with others. She is a High School Sophomore and an A & B student. She plans on being a certified baby sitter, a veteranarian, AND a voice over actress for animated movies.
Chicago, IL
