My name is Michelle Carey and I have been touched by autism, my goddaughter, Beth (age 7), and her brother, Ben (age 8), are both autistic. I didn’t know anything about autism until Beth and Ben became a part of my life. Since that time, I have learned a lot about autism and I have seen Beth and Ben grow to be very special and loving children.

From the moment I first held Beth in my arms, we have had a special bond. Although a year had passed until the next time I held her, she was immediately drawn to me and when she sat in my lap, we were both at peace. Although geographic distance keeps us apart most of the time, whenever we are together, we are inseparable. I am her Auntie Shell and in my mind, she can do no wrong.

Beth’s brother Ben is also very special to me. Ben is a full of life, energetic little boy, but he is incredibly sweet and sensitive. Ben is always very concerned about those around him, asking, “Are you ok?” Although I am usually attached at the hip with Beth, whenever I spend time with Ben, we always have a lot of fun and a lot of laughs.

It has not been my fate to have children of my own, but with Beth and Ben in my life I do not believe I am missing out. I feel loved by Beth and Ben and I love them as if they were my own. I am blessed to have them in my life.

Michelle Carey