When My Son Shared How He Feels About Autism

I’ve written thousands of words about my son, Kreed, over the years. Our perspective on raising him, his journey with communication and the heartache through his vast medical conditions. I’ve had so many conversations over the years with Kreed as well, though most centered around his wants and needs and teaching him to comment on his environment.

There are a couple of moments that pretty much brought me to tears. We initially asked Kreed if he knew what his diagnoses were, and he replied yes and with the word “autism.” We had never asked him this question in 16 years. I would have assumed he knew because it played such a part in his life. So many people talked about it, and I know he’s seen the word on papers. He was in the hospital during this time, so our conversation was limited but powerful.

Some months later, I engaged in a second conversation with Kreed regarding himself — an introduction of sorts straight from him. It’s not for me to say how he feels about autism and what’s hard or not. So rather than write about Kreed’s autism and how he feels, this video of Kreed using his device (Dynavox Compass) to communicate is far more powerful.

Editor’s note: It is with a heavy heart we share the news that Kreed passed away on May 8, 2016. Our hearts are with his family, and we’re so grateful to help keep his memory alive on our site. He was truly one of the mighty.

Follow this journey on Kreed’s World and on the Kreed’s World Facebook page.