Hi!
Joseph, born on June 26, 2019, has been a source of immense joy and learning in our lives
As he grew, we cherished each milestone, from his first smile to his initial steps. However, when Joseph reached 15 months, we began noticing behaviors that differed from typical developmental patterns.
One of the earliest signs was his limited response to his name. Despite multiple attempts to gain his attention, Joseph often seemed unresponsive, leading us to initially question his hearing. Additionally, his eye contact was infrequent, and he showed a preference for solitary play rather than engaging with peers or family members.
We also observed delays in his language development. By 18 months, many children begin to use simple words or gestures to communicate their needs. Joseph, however, exhibited minimal babbling and rarely used gestures like pointing or waving. This absence of typical communicative behaviors raised our concerns
Another behavior that stood out was his repetitive actions. Joseph would spend extended periods lining up his toys meticulously and became visibly distressed if the arrangement was altered. He also engaged in repetitive movements such as hand-flapping and spinning in circles, especially when excited or upset.
Recognizing these signs, we sought guidance from our pediatrician, who recommended a comprehensive evaluation. After a series of assessments, Joseph was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
While the diagnosis brought a mix of emotions, it also provided clarity and a pathway to access early intervention services tailored to his unique needs.
Right after his diagnosis, Joseph began therapy at 18 months old. He started occupational therapy in 2021, and after a year, he began his speech therapy. Since then, we’ve immersed ourselves in understanding autism and advocating for Joseph.
Early intervention therapies have been instrumental in supporting his communication and social skills. We’ve also connected with support groups, finding solace and strength in shared experiences with other families navigating similar journeys
Joseph’s presence has profoundly enriched our lives. His unique perspective and the love he shares remind us daily of the beauty in diversity. Our journey, though filled with challenges, has been one of growth, understanding, and unwavering Love.
