Autism and Romance.

Autism from a mama who has been there. I am going to try to post every day this month. Please feel free to ask questions in the comments.

Autism and Romance.

Autistic people have hearts, hopes, and want to love and be loved, just like everyone else.

Over the years, my son has had amazing friends (and some not so amazing friends), been hurt, and even traumatized. But he has only had one girlfriend!

When my son turned 16, he decided he was going to take a date to every “big” dance. He would listen to his friends and classmates and determine who really wanted to go and plan a personal invitation. The thought he put into his choices was truly remarkable. He showed incredible empathy.

I have to tell you I was way more nervous than he was the first time he asked a girl to homecoming. I was sending my “special guy” out in the cold, cruel world. And I wouldn’t be there! I was terrified!

But, he chose young ladies who treated him with as much kindness and respect as he treated them.

Then he met “Her” at an after school club. He was smitten. They married two years later. It has been a challenge. Navigating marriage is hard even without autism. But, “She” is excellent with him. (Her older sister has autism.) She has a tremendous amount of patience. And my son has an unlimited amount of unconditional love. Almost a decade later, and they are still working, living, and loving together. They are indeed perfect for each other.

Happy Anniversary, you two.
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Celebrate the small stuff. Be flexible. Laugh.