Stories of Hope

Easter Seals is the nation's leading provider of services and support for children and adults living with autism. Our clients' stories offer insight into the type of services provided by Easter Seals throughout the country -- and provide inspiration for individuals and families that autism is treatable, and individuals with autism can and do lead meaningful lives.

	Milestones, First Steps Ben recently attended his first birthday party, singing "Happy Birthday" along with the other children. Ben also told his mother, "I love you" for the very first time. Ben was diagnosed with autism in 2005. Read Ben's story.
	Opportunities are Endless 5-year-old Carson's future is full of opportunities; opportunities he did not have a couple of years ago before participating in the P.L.A.Y. Project (Play and Language for Autistic Youngsters) at Easter Seals Michigan. Read Carson's story.
	School's Cool! When asked about school, Connor's typical response is, "school's cool!" This is music to the ears of Connor's parents who searched for the right school for Connor, enduring many rejections along the way -- that is, until they contacted Easter Seals. Read Connor's story.
	Blast Off! Drew is skyrocketing to a life of interaction and integration, a far cry from his starting point since being diagnosed with PDD-NOS (Pervasive Development Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified). Read Drew's story.
	A Sense of Belonging After being asked to leave his fourth daycare in as many years, Suzanne didn't know what to do. At last, she found a place for her son, Marcus, at Easter Seals New Hampshire's Child Development Center -- the right place. Read Marcus' story.
	Just Being Yourself Jayne wants her son Neil, who has autism, to be accepted for being himself -- but she also appreciates the fact that she could be herself at an Easter Seals Family Support Group. Read Neil's story.

Adults with Autism

	The Pieces Fit Together Rob, age 44, has autism. He also has a job at an office where his true personality shines. Read Rob's story.
	Olympic Glory At seven, Jamie was barely verbal and had a permanant scar from banging his head against the wall. Today, Jamie is a Special Olympic athlete who brought home several medals. Read Jamie's story.
	Independent Women Aiden and Amanda are twin girls who have autism. They live on their own, are pursuing their educations and holding down jobs. The support they recieve from Easter Seals Crossroads, help them as they strive for adult independence. Read Aiden and Amanda's story.
	Volunteering Daniel first arrived at Easter Seals in 2007. At 22, he doesn't let autism slow him down. Daniel volunteers and is training for the Special Olympics. Read Daniel's story.