My name is Sherry Len Myart and I would like to share a few things about a young man by the name of Brian Francis Klecka, Jr. Brian is my son, the second oldest of three other sons. He has been a very important person in my life, to say the least. Brian is 16 years old. He is oh, so sweet, charming, affectionate, handsome, funny, and smart. He is a joy to my heart and I don't know what life would be like without him. With all of that said, I left out a tiny detail - Brian has autism. Autism makes Brian unique. He has autism, but autism doesn't have him. Autism has never stopped Brian's show.

Since his diagnosis at around the age of two-and-a-half years old, I have watched him grow and develop in ways that I never imagined possible. I have watched him develop speech and learn to care for himself. I have seen him develop a love for music and outdoor summer life (he was once afraid of the grass as a little boy). He loves concerts and he enjoys life.

Just like everyone else, he has good days and bad days, but the good days tend to keep out-weighing the bad days. It wouldn't be normal if every day was perfect and without flaws. Brian has his frustrations that the entire family must deal with, but that's okay. I have bad days and frustrations too.

Brian is always remembered in the neighborhood where he grew up, as well as where he presently lives due to some of his - shall I say - devilish tricks! Friends and family can really attest to that! People are genuinely interested in him because of his character, despite having autism. As a result, they have been interested in learning more about autism and have opened hearts and minds.

Being his mom has been one of the most joyous, challenging, yet rewarding jobs I have ever had. I have become even more empathetic and vigilant. I have become an even more compassionate person and have become so much stronger. I have one special person to thank for that - Brian Francis Klecka, Jr. - my beautiful son. I thank God for his gifted life!

Sherry Myart