I knew that I wanted to be a teacher since I was twelve. And then I met my first child with autism when I was seventeen, Shari. Then, I knew I wanted to be a teacher of people with autism. Twenty-six years later I am still living my dream.

Shari and I spent significant time together over a period of three years. I was her family’s respite provider. We swam at the pool, fed ducks at the lake, jumped on the trampoline, ate meals at favorite restaurants. Fun times! I also learned how to support Shari in daily living – brushing teeth, putting on a seatbelt, using utensils, getting dressed. Less fun, but certainly raised my awareness of how important these skills are for future independence.

Shari and her family allowed me an intimate glimpse into their household, welcoming me to become part of their world. I participated within their family to ensure that Shari, ten years old at the time, had quality care, while living with her family. Living at-home was the goal. Shari had previously spent time in an institutional setting. Out-of-home placement was a difficult decision for her family. Unfortunately, an out-of-home placement was the only option offered by the social service system to address Shari’s complex needs. Shari’s parents knew that institutionalization was not appropriate for their daughter. They advocated vociferously and received services such as respite which allowed Shari to be successful while living at home.

After working with Shari I went to college and then graduate school. I learned an enormous amount of theory and applied skills. I became a teacher, then an educational consultant. I moved across multiple states and multiple jobs. With each move I took the knowledge that spending time with Shari provided - with proper services and supports every individual with autism can succeed in their community.

Patricia Wright