Jen's Story

February 7, 2012
By Jen

Over 20 years ago, I fell in love with a quiet, gentle man who shared my interest in nature and love for God. Shortly after being married, our differences became clearer and problems began as he showed more interest in his hobby than his family and didn't connect emotionally with us. We struggled through and didn't know if we'd survive.

After several job losses and feeling alone (like a single mom), we were pleasantly surprised by another child, Logan. He was born 12 years after our youngest daughter and, at the age of 2, we realized he was regressing and was diagnosed with autism. A friend made the comment, he's not Autistic, he's JUST like Eric...it was THEN that I realized that maybe my husband was on the spectrum as well.

After reading the book Alone Together and having it confirmed by marriage counselors (who noticed it before I did), I knew I was married to someone with Asperger’s.  It has not been easy...but having the diagnosis for both of them has helped me to better understand. I feel frustrated still that he is often forgetful or inconsiderate, but he's making an effort and our relationship has improved.

I love my family, and can see now how being 'different' is not always easy, but people on the autism spectrum need LOVE and acceptance just like we do. Logan improved with the help of diet (gluten/casein free) and supplements and therapy because he was diagnosed at an early age and I've worked hard to help him. My husband has some habits that are harder to break and it's put a strain on our relationship, but we love each other and are trying to make this work. This Valentine’s Day is a happy one because of how far we've come.