Monday, October 1, 2012

Who Are You?





I am a stay-at-home-dad raising a child with high functioning autism. I am many other things, but that statement has come to define me.

We constantly fight to not have my son labeled by his disability, but forget to fight for ourselves. Autism should not define my son. Autism should not define me.

I think a lot of us forget this for ourselves. I talk about my son and his disability all the fucking time. My wife has to remind me that people care about Jack, but not as much as I do, so keep my answers brief and to the point when asked how he is doing. When someone wants to have a long conversation, you'll know. I apologize to those of you I have cornered.

I write a blog to talk about this. Go back and read some articles if you want to hear about Jack. Check out the Facebook page if you want quick updates, or witty stories, or complaints.

My sister called for my birthday last year and asked how I was doing. I told her that Jack was doing really well in school. "Great, but how are you doing?"

I exist beyond my son.

Today is my 7 year wedding anniversary. Those of you that know me, also know that I married up... way up. I am a damn good husband.

I studied English and Screenwriting in College. I have been published (and paid) numerous times over the years. I am a damn good writer.

I received an email from an old friend responding to one of my posts reaching out to help. "You have helped me through so many dark places in my life in the past", is what she said. I am a damn good friend.

I eagled the 15th at Scholl Canyon Golf Course. I'm not a damn good golfer, but I'm improving.

This blog is about raising a child with autism. This is an appropriate place to discuss it. I am a damn good parent.

I am a stay-at-home-dad raising a child with high functioning autism.

I am.





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