Nestled in the beautiful, peaceful mountains between State College and Altoona, St. Joseph Institute offered what the Christian family needed desparately the July 4th weekend -- to be a "typical" family. Now, when I say typical -- I don't mean 2 parents, 2.5 kids, dog and cat -- I mean a family that doesn't hear those words coming from another family's child "Mommy, why does that girl act like that...?". You see, my 4 year old daughter, Tatum was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder a year ago. The sometimes strange behavior associated with autism includes flapping arms and hands, a random screech and lack of speech. Which, understandably can be confusing to "typical" children -- heck to adults for that matter. And I don't blame a child for asking the question aloud -- that's one of the wonderful things about children - -their honesty. And many times when you explain to someone about the developmental disability, they become a compassionate person more accepting of difference.
But, for 3 days, my Tatum was "typical" -- because she was surrounded by other kids with autism and their families. It was a special retreat organized by the mother of an autistic son and it was a Godsend. For 3 days we didn't have to worry about disapproving glances and hurtful whispers when Tatum starts screeching and running around in circles. That's because everyone at this retreat was in the same situation. Kate (the organizer) thought of EVERYTHING! She got students from Penn State to volunteer their time to help each family with their special needs. My husband and I actually got to spend time in the sauna, pool and jacuzzi. I got a massage and my 15 year old, Megan and I actually got to play some tennis. It was heaven! The owners of the institute provided meals for the kids' special diets! For 3 days, we got to experience life as a "typical family" and it was phenomenal.
And for those of you whose kid wonders aloud "why does that child act like that...?" -- that's okay -- I encourage communication with everyone about autism and other disabilities so we can all be understanding and accepting of the "atypical".
For more information about this retreat, visit www.asdtogether.org.
Thanks for watching,
Sherry
