This session will also provide what we hope has been achieved by the last two sessions presented in Rhode Island and Nashville. It will provide a window into what it is like to live with ASD, support a child and sibling who has Autism, and to also ensure that person has doors opened to be both respected and valued for who they are.

The session will format will be as follows:

I. Introductions ~ A cast of characters

II. A quick overview A. Diagnosis ~ Initial Struggles a. What's the buzz? b. Appropriate paths B. Seeking assistance and maintaining a healthy family dynamic a. Support from family b. ASD Community support C. A Rocky Road ~ Pursuing Inclusive Education Options a. Laying the groundwork b. Obtaining professional support D. Believing in our child ~ Triumphs outweigh the difficulty a. Getting past the obstacles and recognizing the abilities E. A family of advocates evolves with the most powerful in a self-advocate a. Effecting change b. Being heard c. Educating a self-advocate and supporters

III. Adolescence ~ Yes this is a scary time A. Sexuality and Maturation issues a. Healthy education options b. Safety concerns ~ Personal safety program c. Circles program

B. Encouraging goals without diminishing dreams a. Getting real and focusing on accomplishments that are within range ~ providing encouragement to keep the dream alive, but via a different means b. Supporting independence and risk taking

IV. Transitioning from Junior High to High School A. A respectful team approach a. It's all about Nicholas with Nicholas b. Personal choice options c. Natural circle of support d. Best laid PATH

B. Looking toward the future a. Personal choices b. True independence c. Security

V. Establishing a Micro board and Micro enterprise A. Selection of members B. A strategic plan for a persons life C. Providing financial groundwork

VI. Perspectives of a sibling A. Natural support is not so different for a person with ASD B. That top ten list ~ “What we can get away with on our own” C. What burden? D. The fear is a natural feeling

VII. A parents' role ~ Revisiting the “norm” A. Eliminating fears B. Providing support C. “Getting over it” D. Letting go E. Being able to have a sigh of relief

VIII. My dreams for my future A. The responsibility of a self-advocate B. Dreams are personal ~ sharing some C. Hopes provide inspiration D. Abilities provide direction E. Autism is a part of me, it is not all of me

IX. Getting over the hurdles ~ preparing for adulthood A. Identification B. Solution seeking C. Ever evolving action plan D. Building a natural circle of support daily

X. Sharing successes and triumphs ~ the finale

Within this session there will be video clips, photos, and artwork shared. Nicholas and Alex will also share clips from a film they assisted in making along with some other personal successes they have shared in. There will also be discussion, by Carolyn and Andrew the fears they have as they look at what may transpired for their son, but also how those fears have been eliminated as they have planned for Nicholas and his future.

As in the past it is the family's intent to inspire others to seek a path that may seem more challenging, but will lead to opening doors, provide for more options, and also provide respectful and supportive avenues for a entire family when living with autism. Though those choices may seem difficult, or more fearful, the ending results often prove to be worth the risk as well as a wonderful learning experience for all those involved within the life of an individual with autism.

It is also the hope of the Gammicchia family to share the positive that has come from their journey thus far. To show that each person touched by their son Nicholas has learned a great deal from him as a person. To encourage looking outside of the box in searching for lifespan options, and to also listen to what is most important, the desires, hopes, and dreams of the person they are wishing to support.