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Chaiah's avatar

Anna is now 38 yo. There was no autistic support in our district

when she was little and in all these years I’ve been her primary teacher and guide. We were told she’d never speak in full sentences, grad high school, or attend college. She communicates fairly well, got her GED, and attended college but it just wasn’t for her. There’s no help. I get no respite. I’ve not had a day off in over 15 yrs and I’m

exhausted. If we could afford to move out we would.

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Helen Stajninger's avatar

Oh Chaiah🙏

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Susan Engelman's avatar

So glad to hear that she is able to communicate now & wish you both the best. In the community that I live in ( West Bend, WI) we have an organization called “The Threshold”. It was started by a number of moms, many years ago that were looking for a respite for family members that were challenged. They have a center for people that are both physically, mentally & verbally challenged. A handicapped bus picks up & takes home those who need assistance, so that their caregiver can have a respite when needed. Not sure where you live, but wondering if there’s something like that in your area.

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Shirlee's avatar

You are a hero! Do you have the energy to ask online Autism support groups to rally and lobby Congress? Some already do that. Perhaps you already have done so, or are too exhausted. Your story has power and could add significantly to the fight for Autism Awareness and services. Hang in there!

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Edie Sadowski's avatar

This makes America Great Again?😬

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Chaiah's avatar

Threshold is here but it’s terrible.

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