Happy Birthday!

 

 

 I just realized something: when we were at her cousin's birthday party yesterday, Isabella had no problem with a large crowd of people singing Happy Birthday and clapping and making noise.

Not a big deal, you say? Oh, yes, it is! Isabella is autistic. Many autistics have a problem with loud noises.

When Bells was about four years old, we were at another cousin's birthday party. I was in the ladies' room when I heard the birthday song start. I hurried to get out of there and my worst fear had come to life. One of my nieces was holding a bawling, scared Isabella. Guilt came over me for wanting to be alone to take care of business while, at the same time, I was so happy to have such wonderful family who loves and takes care of my precious granddaughter when I cannot.

So, you see, the fact that I was able to take for granted that Isabella was fine yesterday is big; very, very big. I am so thankful for her growth and for the people, family, friends, therapists, teachers, who have brought her to this point. 

Most of all, I am thankful for a courageous little girl, now ten years old, who has worked so hard to be able to live in a world that can be very unfriendly. I am so blessed.

gail