Autism Awareness - The Story of Maximus

There is a little boy named Maximus who loves everything sports related, likes to play outside and his favorite subject at school is Math. This bright eight year old has a very kind heart and wants everyone around him to be happy. He has the biggest, brightest blue eyes and a huge grin that stretches from ear to ear. Maximus is autistic and this is his story through his mother's eyes.

Autism Awareness - The Story of Maximus

Maximus has always been a special child just like every child is when they are born. He has an older brother so I was constantly comparing them on their milestones. I just assumed Maximus was further advanced in some areas and behind in other areas for his age, but as he turned 2 ½ years old and knew all his letters, counted to 20, could memorize other people's license plates and would read short books on his own. It was then I realized he was special in a very unique way. Maximus also would have complete meltdowns over smells, noises or if we were out of his daily routine. Maximus would always chew on things like his shirt sleeves, remote controls, batteries etc. I just thought that's what some toddlers do. But in my heart I knew I had to talk to his doctor about it.

I scheduled doctor appointments and had Maximus seen at several different specialists because I wanted to make sure they had done every testing and wanted second opinions. I would not let them diagnose Maximus for years because I could not come to grips with it. I just kept searching for more information and answers. Finally when Maximus was 7 years old and had been seeing a Behavioral Specialist at University of Kentucky's Hospital for a year and a half I was ready for them to put it in on paper. Maximus was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome.

Asperger's Syndrome definition is a developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to socialize and communicate effectively with others. Children with Asperger's syndrome typically exhibit social awkwardness and an all-absorbing interest in specific topics. Doctors group Asperger's syndrome with other conditions that are called autistic spectrum disorders. These disorders all involve problems with social skills and communication. Asperger's syndrome is generally thought to be at the milder end of this spectrum.

Maximus may do things in his own unique way and see the world differently but he still is my Maximus. He marches to the beat of his own drums, but as his mother I wouldn't have it any other way. He may not make eye contact when he speaks to me and he does go on and on about Drew Brees and football stats. But as his mother I will sit and listen forever because that is how deep my love is for him. Some days are harder than others but I would never want Max to be any different than who he is meant to be.

So next time you are out in public and see a child screaming at their parents, crying and throwing a fit while the parents are not screaming back at their child and they are being patient and calming with the child, remember that you do not know what the child or parent is going through. April is Autism Awareness month so I wanted to share a little bit about my journey with Maximus.

Autism Articles:  

Change Your Diet Change Your Child Series - Autism Spectrum Disorder 

Change Your Diet Change Your Child Series - Autism Spectrum Disorder - Part 2

Change Your Diet Change Your Child Series - Autism Spectrum Disorder - Part 3

Change Your Diet Change Your Child Series - Autism Spectrum Disorder - Part 4

Autism Awareness  - The Story of Maximus

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Shelley King

Shelley is a boy mom, marine wife, and is blessed with an amazing family. She loves sharing recipes, travel reviews and tips that focus on helping busy families make memories.