Today my youngest son turns 23 already. I know we all say it but where has the time gone!
I have mentioned in previous posts that he is autistic with a severe global developmental delay. He is also non-verbal and mentally operates at about 3-5 years old. Yes, I know life hasn't been easy for our family since we had Sean. Now before anyone says anything about how difficult is must be to raise him or oh, that poor thing, or calls him the "r" word, (retarded), a word I despise, I have to say how much I have learned from him.
His name is Sean and he is totally non-verbal. Before Sean was born he had a stroke and he had breathing problems when he was first born. Having Sean in my life has made me more grateful for what we have, to appreciate the small things around me and not to take for granted the things we just assume we will have. He has taught me to look for the positive in every situation. He has taught me to break down everyday tasks into steps so I can teach him the routines and he has taught me that there is nothing that a smile and a hug from him can't fix. The unconditional love he shares with us makes caring for him easier and I would not want to think of what my life would be like without him. He makes me a better person.
For years now Sean has had a favourite stuffed Tiger. He has needed a lot of repairs over the years but for now it is still being well loved.
"Tiger" goes everywhere with Sean.
That is why I decided to make him a tiger cake for his birthday!