Communication Makes All the Difference

By Andrew Rhea

13 years old Non-verbal Autism

Watch Andrew point out his blog, click these links: Part I    Part II

When asked about the difference communication meant in his life, Andrew pointed out the following using a pencil and a stencil board his Grandfather made for him:

Yes, now that I am using the letterboard, my life is having more meaning. Since I was a little boy, what I really wanted was to be treated as a normal boy with pieces of my sensory system out of functioning.

All autistics think, "What is my purpose if no one thinks I can learn?"

Then my Mom found I am learning more than she thought. You see all autistics have motor issues that limit their ability to communicate. So once I had new way to communicate, I felt like a kind of lottery winner in life.

So now I am hoping to graduate from High School and lead a fulfilling life.

Andrew also adds these words of wisdom:

See each individual as a respecting individual who deserves to have an education and live in their communities as productive citizens.

Biography:

Andrew Rhea is 13 years old and lives with his two sisters, mom, and dad in Texas. Andrew attends public school and is in the 8th grade. He is mainstreamed in math, social studies, science, language arts (English), and attends adaptive PE. He earns good grades and works each night on homework using his stencil board. Andrew is currently a member of the National Junior Honor Society.