Charlie was born on a Hot and sunny day - at Winney Palmer Hospital in Orlando, Fl.

It was August 13, 2014. Ironically, the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Charley. Sheer coincidence, I promise!

Charlie had some blood sugar complications and was taken to be monitored immediately. I remember how anxious we were, constantly asking,

"When can I feed my baby?

he must be hungry...

Can we see Charlie now?

WHAT'S GOING ON?".

Finally, my husband and I were escorted to the nursery.

There he was, already poked and prodded before I could even count all of his toes and fingers!

Charlie's blood sugar was low, he looked so pitiful with an IV in his tiny hand.

Of course, I was an emotional mommy, blaming myself for drinking that Frappuccino on the way to the hospital! (Still, probably my fault).

Nevertheless, Charlie was perfect for us, in every way! He was truly a happy baby and loving just as he was LOVEABLE. Except for the colic he possessed. Not no so loveable!

As Charlie got older we noticed he was different from our other children. He didn't necessarily make eye contact or answer his name.

One time my grandmother was trying to get his attention with a rattling toy; she would shake the toy and call his name, he didn't acknowledge her, she persisted and he just stared elsewhere.

She looked up at me, I almost got the vibe as if my baby offended her; because he wasn't the typical babbling baby.

Now I know that's not the case, but I'll never forget how insecure I felt because my baby was different.

I wish I could talk to that insecure mother now. I would tell her that different is beautiful and that life is happening for you, not to you.

To suck it up buttercup; because you've got a long road ahead of you, a road that's bumpy and flat out dysfunctional!

But.

It gets better.

At age one, Charlie still showed no interest in talking or even walking. I remember screaming, yes screaming his name in frustration, because he wouldn't even look at me!

I would then hold him and cry, feeling sorry for him, and ask questions like, why us? Why now? Asking God to heal him of whatever this was!

Not knowing that Charlie's mind was incredibly brilliant and complex! That both of our sons may not function like others, but they offered something others can't.

Perspective.

They offer life Lessons that are character building, humbling and above all rewarding!

When I would bring up Charlie and Damon being different, my husband would dismiss it. Saying that, "Boy's are slower than girls" and "Not to worry".

Of course, we were in denial.

Honestly, it was too much to handle.

I forgot to mention that I have multiple sclerosis and the flare-ups have been very hard on my family.

People tell me how inspiring my story is, because I overcame paralysis, lost 85% of my eyesight, etc, etc.

At this point, Charlie almost "Aged out" of any 'Early intervention Programs'. Another reason why awareness is so important!

Charlie is almost 7 years old now and he has made significant improvements.

He has developed a language all on his own, yet continues to learn the English language and certain signs to communicate. Communication can be very challenging for those with ASD. Visuals and pictures of everyday task helps.

Be encouraged, parents, and loved ones.

I promise that in time, you'll adapt, learn, and develop a system that works for you and your family.

I can't change the past, and yes I could blame myself, and live in shame.

I can blame circumstances, ignorance, being fearful and unaware.