Welcome to Aspergers: A Mom’s Eye View!
So, what is this blog and why am I writing it? Simply because, this is my life – struggles and triumphs – and if someone else might benefit from my experiences, good and bad, then I’m happy to share. That is my wish.
I am the mother of three great kids, aged 7-12, who are mostly the joys of 
my life and sometimes the bane of my existence! My now 10-year-old son, Gregory, was finally diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome when he was 8. He is bright, talented and funny, but he has significant challenges as well. This blog deals with how this neurological disorder has impacted him, me, and our entire family. It will discuss our trials and errors, and even mis-directions as we’ve attempted over the years to figure out and then ‘treat’ his problems.
I have no particular background in this field (with degrees in finance and marketing, of all things!), but over the past two years I have become an ‘accidental expert’ out of necessity. I am ’that mother’ who is reading, taking classes, attending seminars and learning as much as possible about autism, in all its forms and symptoms, and various therapies. My primary goal has been to help my son overcome (and/or cope with) his challenges and reach his full potential for a happy, enriching life.
However, my wonderful husband – that funny, insightful, geeky guy, who supports all my crazy obsessions with merely a raised eyebrow – convinced me of a secondary goal. He is the impetus behind this blog. Barry is ‘all things techy’ and has been dragging me (kicking and screaming) into current technologies and social networking trends ever since we met 15 years ago. He has twisted my arm once again, insisting that all the knowledge that I’ve been collecting might be worthwhile sharing with others in our situation, and that a blog would be a great way to get the word out. And so, Aspergers: A Mom’s Eye View is born!
Although normally very reticent about myself, I’m a firm believer in the old adage that ‘knowledge is power’, so the more we can share with and support one another, the better for us all! With that in mind, I welcome any comments, suggestions and anecdotes from all of you….bring ‘em on! And in the meantime, happy reading!
Hooray! Congratulations, and thank you for listening to me
Hooray! thanks for listening to Barry. I have learned more from talking with my friends than I have learned from doctors and books combined! Thanks for doing this.
I have Aspergers and write a blog for a similar reason — to raise awareness and help people understand what it’s like. There are lots of people with Aspergers, and also parents of children with Aspergers, who write blogs, so you can get a good support network.
Thanks capriwin….I look forward to hearing about some of your experiences.
Hi Joanne,
Welcome to the blogging community. I applaud you for doing this. Your experience is other people’s treasure. In problem solving, the act of finding the problem is half the battle. It does not mean that it is solve, at least you know what is going on.
Your blog post will raise awareness and help many families dealing with the same challenges.
Keep up the good work. More power to you.
Regards,
Will Lukang
Thanks Will! I agree that identifying the problem is a critical step in moving forward. It changes from trying things blindly to enabling a targeted game plan.
I am the father of an Aspie. We have known about his condition for many years. He had extensive ABA therapy and his mother has done a great job following through. He is doing exceptionally well now. He is presently being home schooled only because school cannot keep up with his academic needs (he is profoundly gifted). As with you, his mother is the powerhouse of knowledge on my son and his condition.
Thank you for your comments Shiroi Tora. Parents can have a profound impact on the quality of life of their children…your son is lucky that you are providing him with such great opportunities. All the best!
Joanne
Thank you for the blog! As a sister of the most wonderful (autistic)brother, it is comforting and interesting to read your entries. I appreciate the fact that you have shared so much about your experiences. Will be checking back often!
I was so glad when I found your Blog, there is so little knowledge and many myths. I will follow you blog. I am a mother to an Asperger girl
Welcome Katharina – and good luck on your journey!
Joanne
Hello there. I really love your entire blog! I have an older brother with Aspergers and, whether thanks to genetics or growing up imitating him, I have some quirks myself. I owe him so much for his part in forming who I am, and now he’s about to head out on his own to college… It’s an uncertain time, and I love all that your blog has to say. It’s given me ideas for ways to help ease his transition out of the safe-haven of our home into that big, scary world out there. Thank you.
Hi Kristina – nothing wrong with a few quirks!
Keeps the world interesting, I say… How wonderful for you to be so supportive of your brother – I’m sure both your lives are enriched by the shared love and understanding. I’m glad you found the blog helpful; transitions are always difficult. Best wishes to you and your brother both!