Me, Myself And I - One Girl's Triumph Over Autism

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Her name was Yung Ha Lee. She was born in Korea with severe facial deformities due to a Cleft Lip and Palate. Her birthparents did not the have the means to pay for corrective surgeries and could not deal with societal taboos that a child like this would raise in their village. The girl was placed for adoption and found a family in the US.

Yung Ha literally translated from Korean means "Summer Glory", and how appropos for a child born in August! Her young life soon changed for the better, as Mom decorated her new room and made homemade baby food for her. Her family called her Summer. Two facial surgeries were successfully done, and she completely won over the heart of her Grandparents. Life was pretty sweet!

One Day Everthing Changed

At 2 years of age, Summer was diagnosed with Autism. Her new family was stunned, they knew a Special Needs adoption might be challenging, but Autism was frightening! The doctors said she would never speak, become potty trained, or have any meaningful relationships. School would be difficult as she was also Developmentally Delayed. Her mom used hundreds of flashcards helping to entice her to speak. Special Ed Class was attended at school, following by years of Speech and Occupational Therapy, and three additional surgeries. Autistic kids can have amazing temper tantrums, and there were many nights of tears on both sides. She began to read, relate to others, and participate in the school drama class play. There was a glimmer of hope!

Summer is now 22 , she reads, writes and is computer literate on a Mac or PC. (Her iPad is her constant companion) She can cook simple microwave meals, takes care of her dog and is able spend a weekend on her own when her Mom is out of town! Fascinated with a certain brand of high end designer handbags, she frequented the store, making connections, and becoming the store "mascot". Upon graduation from Special High School, she took her fascination and ran with it. She now works in this store, and calls it her "Dream Job". I am blessed to know this lovely young lady, and even luckier that she is my daughter!

Life is not easy at times, but dreams can come true, and strength does come from adversity. I know this for a fact. I would not be the person that I am today, if it not for Summer being in my life!

Always Believe ...... And Never Give Up!

Sammi:)

For more information about Autism, please contact www.autismspeaks.org

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Recent Comments

59

This is such an inspiring story. Thanks for sharing about your wonderful daughter!

I appreciate your kind words Kathy! Thanks for reading:)

Sammi

Wow!! This is great to hear and for everyone to just believe in life and the rest will fall into place. Great Job Mom!

Thank you sooo much for taking your time to read Summer's story:)

Sammi

Ditto to what the rest have said. It's great what you have done and probably greater what your daughter has accomplished. Way to go mom!

Thanks Rick! It's not always easy, but we have only one way to go-forward! I appreciate your kind remarks.

Sammi:)

Wow, what a heart-warming story! Thanks so much for sharing. We need more caring and loving people like yourself and Summer in this world. You sure proved those doctors wrong! Anything is possible if one is determined to find a way. Great job Mom and Summer!

Romeo, Many thanks for taking the the to read and comment on my post!! I appreciate the support and ecouragement:)

Sammi

Wow, what a wonderful and story for all of us. I have worked with children with Autistic children and they are precious human beings. They can be challenging as you know but they also bring a special love and innocense that does not come from others. Bless you and your daughter, Summer.

I appreciate your comments Randy! It is not always easy, but there is hope for Summer and many others with the research being done. Thank You for taking an interest in these Special people!

Sammi:)

Thank you for sharing your's and Summer's story. This is something that is very close to my heart.

Kathy, I appreciate you taking the time to read my post. I hope and pray for an effective treatment for this life changing condition!

Sammi:)

Yes I am praying for the very same.

Amen Sister!

A truly inspirational post. To say you must be proud is a very big understatement, and you deservedly should be. The book idea would be wonderful, if you need help.....
Give yourself and Summer a big hug, you both deserve one,
Regards
Hudson

Thanks Hudson...... I appreciate your kind words! BTW- Summer enjoyed her story too:)

Sammi

Great post. I am well aware of how big the obstacles are that you and Summer have overcome as autism has touched my family. You are obviously a determined and loving mom.

Many Thanks! I appreciate you taking the time to read my post. Autism has touched many lives, and Summer still has a ways to go. It is my prayer that other families can see hope from her story.

Sammi:)

Well Get started...LOL I would love to read it..

Beautiful Post, I notice you only have the one link in This post.. Have you though of making this an Article, and possibly adding links to say books or flashcards... I know one thing I really do not know much about Autism, I am certain you could a guide on how you learnt to deal with the stresses of daily life at home bringing Summer up as a Child..

David, Thanks for reading!! Yes- There is enough material to write a book, or coach others on my Behavior Modification Techniques used with Summer:) I would love to help other Single Mom's or families dealing with this!

Sammi:)

I can see it working out, as it is not just something your passionate about, but living and learning everyday.

I appreciate your vote of condidence, a book has always been secretly in the back of my mind:)

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