Finding help

Imagine having to escort your 18-year-old child from the movie theater after he bursts into tears while watching the latest Disney release. Or not being invited to a party because the host thinks that, since your offspring suffers from a mental disability, you're most likely “slow” too.

Members of Special Blessings, a local Christian support group for families of autistic children, deal with these types of difficulties - and plenty of joy, too - on a daily basis. Formed by several local families last fall, the group meets monthly to discuss the joys, fears and other situations that autistic families are presented with every day.

Last week, Special Blessings held its monthly gathering at Denny's restaurant on Grant Avenue to share those experiences, along with some good food and fellowship. The 7 p.m. meeting was attended by several families, children included, and was held in the restaurant's back room.