A local mother is on a mission to change the way you think about autism and the children who have the disorder.
For Bryn Booker, the topic is very personal.
If you were watching 7-year-old Bradock on the playground, you probably would not notice anything different. However, as a toddler the Booker’s realized their son Bradock could not communicate like other children.
Close to his third birthday, the Booker’s learned Bradock was autistic.
“I was so thankful for when we go the diagnosis because then I had something to research. And I didn't feel like it was all my fault that I was doing something wrong. I though I really am bad at this parenting thing," said Bryn.
The family started down an all too familiar path for autistic children, visiting many therapists and doctors.
Then the Bookers say they had a real breakthrough, not with Bradock, but within themselves.
"What I've noticed is he really does understand things on a deeper level than we initially thought," said Chris Booker, Bradock’s father.
The Booker’s call this their “Autism Shift.” .
"I saw my son's potential instead of just the diagnosis," said Bryn.
And that potential turned to inspiration and the desire to spread a positive message.
"That's what I'm trying to do is open people's minds to the fact that every kid on the autism spectrum has a far greater intelligence and capabilities then we even understand."
Bryn started a website called TheAutismShift.com . It’s filled with personal stories of people with autism thriving. She hopes the website motivates, teaches and allows more people to experience their own Autism Shift.
