Where does the time go?  Trying to stay on top of things  isn't always easy.  I think I better practice what I preach.  I am off to take a walk and ground myself.   That has always worked wonders. Visit www.raisingbrandon.com

Brandon ordered his eyeglasses and I had said before in an earlier post he was successful. When he returned to pick them up an older man adjusted his frames and sent him on his way.  Brandon didn't take the time to look into the  mirror.  When he got home a neighbor said to Brandon, "Why are you wearing women frames with flowers and rhinestones all over them?"  Brandon took them off and looked at them and sure enough they were ladies frames.  He got back on the bus to return his glasses. The man said he was sorry that he gave him the women's frames instead of the mans.  When Brandon called me to tell me this story he began to laugh.  It's fantastic that Brandon was able to find humor at a time when he could have easily felt upset.  Brandon is making great progress.   Visit www.raisingbrandon.com

I found this on the Internet and it spoke to me.  It is one of the most beautiful compensations in life... that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself. Ralph Waldo Emerson Visit www.raisingbrandon.com

I spoke to Brandon and he was delighted that he was able to order his new glasses by himself.   He was thrilled with the color and shape of the frames.  He was ever so pleased with the young gal Tiffany who was his sales clerk. She took great interest in Brandon and gave him plenty of time helping him to make a good choice.  These individual successes helps to build Brandon's self-esteem and self-worth.  Tiffany you made Brandon's day.  I can't thank you enough.  Visit www.raisingbrandon.com

Yesterday, Brandon's prescription sunglasses broke. He called me sounding quite concerned, because he didn't know what to do.  I call it parenting from a distance.  Over the phone I was able to give him many suggestions and solutions.  Brandon loves to have choices.  Don't we all?Visit www.raisingbrandon.com

It is Bullying Prevention Awareness Week.  How fantastic.  Being kind to others, especially if they are different.  I wish something like this was around when Brandon was growing up. For more information visit ASA autism society.org, and click on bullying for some ideas and suggestions from Pacer.   www.raisingbrandon.com

Another week-end is ending, and the world is moving at such a fast pace I feel as if I have to run just to keep up with myself.  Visit www.raisingbrandon.com

Greatest Birthday Present

I had a wonderful birthday and I received one of the greatest gifts.   Brandon called to wish me happy birthday and before he hung up he said, "I love you."  It may not sound like much to many people, but if you have a child/adult that has a hard time communicating, and responding appropriately you will understand why I feel the way I do. In Brandon's thirty-five years he has said I love you to me maybe three times, but he was coached to say it. This time he did it on his own and it had significant meaning.  We can't give up on our kids/adults you never know when or where or how they will surprise you.     Visit www.raisingbrandon.com

Last week-end August 9-10 I had a booth and I spoke at the Autism Conference in Pasadena.  It was wonderful to meet so many parents, teachers, and therapists seeking help and sharing professional advice all under one roof.   What a great place to come for answers and support.  I wish when Brandon was growing up we would have had conferences like these to attend.  Any time a parent has the opportunity to come to one of these conferences I think it is a great way to collect valuable information in a short period of time.  I am aware when parents leave many feel overwhelmed and I certainly understand that.  However, with taking good notes and a bit of space to digest the information most parents have a pathway, a direction with which to embark.     Visit www.raisingbrandon.com

It's a New Day

Yesterday Brandon called to tell me he had an epileptic seizure. He said the paramedics walked him home and he didn't have to go to the hospital. Brandon was happy about avoiding the hospital, but very unhappy about experiencing yet another seizure. This morning I called him to see how he was doing. I asked him, "Brandon how do you feel?" He replied, "You know mom it's a new day." Brandon continues to be my finest teacher. How lucky we are to have new days.


Visit www.raisingbrandon.com

New Blog On The Block....THERE IS HOPE

My son, Brandon, has epilepsy, learning disabilities, and a form of autism called Asperger Syndrome.

Despite Brandon’s limitations and challenges, I wanted him to have the best life possible. Today he does. I’ll share with you how we made that happen.

I’ve been where you are, and I know from personal experience that when our children are helped at an early age, they have a much better chance of changing negative behaviors, improving performance, increasing self-acceptance, and self esteem. However, if you missed that opportunity as I did with my son, don’t give up. I know firsthand it’s never too late to get help.