By the time Jack turned 3 in February, the reality had begun to sink in. We had suspected something might be wrong for months, but Samuel’s heart saga demanded so much attention, we didn’t even want to think about this. So we waited until after surgery to get our next disconcerting revelation. It came in May:

Jack has autism.

Even as I type those words, I have to remind myself to stay calm. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) covers a wide range of conditions. Jack’s symptoms don’t indicate an extreme case. He is a happy little guy, always smiling and singing. His motor skills are fine, and he is comfortable and flexible around us.

His social development, however, has been noticeably slow for a long time. Jack ignores his sisters and other kids his age. His vocabulary would be average for a boy half his age, and he doesn’t retain eye contact with anyone accept for Sara. He has also had severe insomnia (a common symptom). But more to the point: Jack usually stays in his own world.

We are so thankful for the new research that is being done on ASD. The medical community is being forced to re-write the playbook in this field, as this seems to be a growing epidemic. Although Jack’s formal diagnosis won’t come until June 10th, we have already started him on Enzyme therapy and special dietary treatments. It has only been a month, but we have already seen some promising progress. Our boy is asking for things now (with words!). And for the first time in we-don’t-know-how long, he is consistently sleeping through the night.

So please keep in your prayers as we try to figure out the best way to help our son. We are praying that he can have a normal life and reach his God-given potential.

Thanks.