An Interview with the sibs

Avalie is a 12 year old honor roll student and is one of the most creative people I have ever come in contact with. Eleanor is a 6 year old girl, with a diabolical sense of humor and also diagnosed with autism (Level 1). This is their experience.

What's your favorite thing about having a sibling with autism?

A: I dont know. He's really funny

E: Playing with him because he gets to learn and he learns about games

What's the hardest part?

A: Waking up in the middle of the night to him screaming and having a meltdown

E: Trying not to die

What does a normal day look like in your family?

A: OH! There are no normal days anymore.

E: They are all sunny days.

Are there things we do differently because of Ezra?

A: Yes. Sometimes we can't go to things because Ezra is in a bad mood, or is upset, or it isn't safe. Our meals have changed. Everything is different, not in a bad way, just in a way.

E: Yes. Like if I'm watching a show and Ezra wants me to play a game with him, we play a game.

Is there anything you wish other kids understood about our family?

A: I dont know

E: I don't even know anymore either

Have you ever felt proud of Ezra?

E: Yes! At KidStrong when he does everything

A: Yeah. I feel proud of him often, especially when we go somewhere and he doesn't have a meltdown and things feel normal.

What helps you when things get hard with Ezra?

A: Making beaded things and date with mom

E: Time alone or time alone with mom, if Ezra can go to granny and papas

What do you wish for Ezra's future?

A: That he has a normal life and a job

E: Playing video games without crying

What is something that people assume that's actually not true?

A: That most people with autism have issues with communication and Ezra does not. It's frustrating when people assume they know what he is like because he's autistic and that's just not true.

E: Having hard problems, I think.

What is one thing that you want everyone to know?

A: Ezra's a pretty cool guy

E: We really like playing together.