Michelle in the US has autism spectrum disorder – story and video

When her daughter, Michelle, was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder before age 3, a medical provider recommended to Teri that Michelle be institutionalized – and to prepare herself for that reality.

Imagine hearing these words and what it must have felt like to a mother.

Teri didn't accept that her small daughter could never learn or grow and thrive. She searched for a place to educate Michelle, and for someone to support her, as a parent, so she could teach her child.

Her search took courage, stamina, and persistence, and the determined love of a mother. It led her to May Institute where she found what she needed for Michelle to have a future, and for herself to be the kind of mother she wanted to be.

Michelle is 20 now, and a student with us at a May Center School. She has gained self-determination, an education, and a paying job. Teri tells us:

'My daughter is one of the happiest, most emotionally stable people I have ever known. She may need 24/7 care in terms of supervision, but this child is very happy about who she is. And isn't that what we all want for our children? - for them to fly as far as they can?' 

Watch Teri's video here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LA4HOI-M8EM&feature=share&list=UUOKEamCpVe8irXKfUWyPalQ

More information here: http://may.convio.net/site/MessageViewer?dlv_id=10361&em_id=2721.0