April is Autism Awarness Month

I remember in high school we had a few people that were slower than others in my graduating class. I don't remember what specifically they were diagnosed with, but it was something that made sitting in a normal class and learning at the same rate as others extremely difficult. The students, however, tried their hardest to do their best in school. They worked with what they were given.

I remember being in school and seeing normal students taking advantage of the mentally challenged kids. They would copy their work or just flat out be mean to them. I watched them, just thinking to myself "How can kids be so mean?" Normal kids would taunt the others, calling them names. It was just horrible.

One day, I finally took a stand for those who couldn't understand they were being taken advantage of or made fun of. I remember getting so angry at the bullies I could barely formulate my thoughts into words. I was, from that day forward the one who without hesitation, stood up for those who couldn't or wouldn't for themselves.

I just recently found out that my younger brother (on my dad's side) is Autistic. When I first met him, my first thought was that he was such a wonderful boy. I couldn't help but think to myself, what if people picked on him? Was there anyone, like me, there to stand up for him? I am glad I stood up for those kids back in high school. I think that if I didn't stand up for them, someone may have not stood up for my brother Chester.