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When their son, Milan, was officially diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at seven years of age, his parents felt a wide range of emotions. Years of uncertainty and concern suddenly collided with feelings of optimism and hope, leaving the Connecticut couple in a state of limbo.

On one hand, they were ready to turn the page on a chapter of their lives that often left them wondering why their extremely smart, funny, empathetic child would suddenly transform into a rigid, aggressive, anxiety-stricken stranger in seemingly routine circumstances. A time when moments of concern and confusion would creep into their minds as they increasingly noticed developmental differences between Milan and his twin sister, Livi. Why did Milan have such sensitivity to loud noises and a heightened sense of smell? Why didn’t he like to be shown physical affection? Why was it so difficult for him to sit still for longer than a few minutes? And why didn’t Livi seem to be affected by any of these things?

On the other hand, they finally had an official diagnosis from Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, a trusted resource. But they were suddenly being thrust into a world about which they knew very little. One thing was certain: They would meet the news head-on and exhaust every resource to ensure their son would have everything he needed to live a happy, fulfilling life.

“My husband and I researched autism spectrum disorder and ADHD, spoke to Milan’s therapist and developmental pediatrician to develop a plan to deal with his diagnosis as a family. We reached out to other parents and the school social worker as well. Of course, Autism Speaks and SEPTO (Special Education Parent Teacher Organization) were also very helpful,” said Milan’s mom.

“We agreed that it would be best to share the diagnosis with Milan and his twin sister, who doesn’t have autism, to help them understand what the diagnosis meant. We read and discussed children’s books with them on ASD and researched autism heroes. We also shared the diagnosis with our friends and family and explained Milan’s sensitivities and needs.”

Today, with the help of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), a dedicated team of teachers and paraprofessionals, and trusted medical professionals, Milan continues to make tremendous strides both socially and academically. He was also placed on medication to help with his anxiety, which has allowed him to become more relaxed around his peers and use his coping strategies to overcome any difficulties he may face throughout the day. Milan has come so far since his initial diagnosis two years ago that today he’s the proud co-author and illustrator of a children’s book titled, “Autism & Me.”

The paperback, co-authored by Allison Butler, Milan’s former paraprofessional and close family friend, is based on Milan’s life. It tells the story of a fictional character, Mike, and creatively demonstrates how his mind works differently than those of most of his friends and family members because he has autism. Milan not only did all the illustrations in the book, but he provided valuable insight into his daily triumphs and struggles in hopes of providing a better understanding about what it means to be on the autism spectrum.

“I had Milan draw all the pictures in the book because a lot of kids in school looked up to his drawings. They would ask how he drew something a certain way or if he could teach them how to draw. To get him even more into the book, I thought it would be nice if the book were about him,” Allison said with a huge smile. “There aren’t many children’s books out there that are from the perspective of a student with autism. This book really came from Milan’s perspective, how he thinks and what he thinks about his struggles and his strengths. I’m just so proud he was able to share his story with the world.”

In the final page of the book, Milan proudly describes the positive outlook he has adopted about his autism since being diagnosed two years ago.

“When I think of autism I think of a big lightbulb on the top of my head. I do not want people to feel bad for me. I like having autism and I would never change anything about myself,” he said through the voice of Mike. “I would not be the person I am today if I did not have autism. I am very creative and smart because of this. However, autism is just a little part of me; it is not who I am.”

Need personalized support? Autism Speaks Autism Response Team (ART) is an information line for the autism community, staffed by a specially trained team who provide personalized information and resources to people with autism and their families. AutismSpeaks.org also offers a variety of resources, tool kits and information on autism services and supports in communities around the country.

1-888-AUTISM2 (1-888-288-4762) 

En Español: 1-888-772-9050

familyservices@autismspeaks.org