I am a military spouse and mom of 3 special needs kids.I am also an aunt of two nephews on the autism spectrum.Being apart of the military life has taught me many important life lessons and has kept me humble.Patience,understanding and seeing the gifts from within came from having my children.My Jenna was always dramatic but i always knew something was going on with her.She always had social issues but i didn't get her diagnosed till age 9 when she started having consistant problems in school.She is now 10 and each day we take one day at a time.Dylan is 5 and has always had multiple delays with Autistic traits. I wouldn't change a thing about my kids because this is who they are regardless of there challenges. I've been blessed beyond measure and because of them i have started an Autism Charity called Put Together The Pieces-The Autism/Asperger's Support Group Of The Oak Island/Southport Area.I just organized the 1st walk in my town and hope to expand.Its first Autism Awareness Day event is April 20th and am so humbled by the outpouring of support from locals and organizations who have donated to my cause.Our next adventure is the 4th of July parade. www.facebook.com/puttogetherthepieces

Dina Scalia
Southport, NC