My beautiful 86 year old energetic, loving, caring, respected, crafty and compassionate grandmother has fallen ill with brain cancer. My sisters and cousins (all girls – seven of us) have rushed to Florida over the past couple of weeks from all parts of the United States to be with her. Many of us overlapped with one another a couple a few days and had such a great time catch-up. One of my cousin’s and her family had never met Nathan and my grandmother and aunt and uncle had not seen Nathan since he was 2.5 years old. So, I think they were all a bit nervous with me showing up with an autistic child during such a stressful time. However, it was the best thing ever and they all were amazed at how well he adapted, behaved, and listened. He made me proud…

But, the most shocking thing of the entire trip was my grandmother’s husband of 40 years pulled me aside and said all the things I have wanted a family member to say to me, but no one has ever had the courage. “You are the most wonderful and caring mother and Nathan is so lucky to have you and Jong as his parents. He may be a bit different than the rest of us, but he is a beautiful and loving child and don’t you ever give up on him. And, don’t you ever be ashamed or embarrassed by him. He is your blessing so continue to be the best parents you are to him. Truly, God could not have given you a more beautiful and wonderful child – enjoy him for who he is.”

Thank you Grandpa Harold for your love and support – those words will be in my heart until the day I die and never forgotten – especially from you, the least expected person. You have made me see you in a different light; not the dirty, old, perverted man that constantly jokes about sex, politics and race. I always knew you were a caring and loving person – and one who has given my grandmother a comfortable life since she has meet you. Thank you for taking care of her.