Our son, Terrell, is 30 years old and has a diagnosis of mild to moderate autism. Over the past two years, we’ve watched something remarkable unfold. Terrell has begun putting thoughtful consideration into the decisions he makes. He asks for help when he feels unsure. He shares about his day more openly and with less frustration. There were times when finding the right words was difficult, but we are seeing those moments decrease. Situations that once upset him no longer carry the same weight. With each passing day, we see more calm, more confidence, and more independence.

Recently, Terrell began asking to go horseback riding. It had been years since he last rode, and in the past his brother was always there to provide support. Since we moved, that familiar support was no longer nearby. Still, Terrell wanted to try. We signed him up for a guided trail ride. He was excited from the start and reassured us, saying, “I will be okay.”

He took time getting to know his horse and carefully listened to the instructions. While waiting for the tour to begin, he watched how the other riders interacted with their horses and quietly mirrored their actions. We admired his attention to detail and how thoughtfully he prepared himself. Being overprotective parents, we asked if he was okay. He responded with a nod and a grin, saying, “I am fine.” Even with a light drizzle and muddy conditions, he remained completely at ease, content, focused, and ready.

When he returned, we asked how it went. His response said it all: “It was great,” “I want to come back,” and “I liked being on the trails.” Needless to say, he will definitely ride again.

Another meaningful decision Terrell made was choosing to attend a day center. He had been asking for friends to spend time with, and we wanted him to find a place where he felt comfortable. We encouraged him to visit first and meet the staff before making any decisions. After spending a day there, he was excited when we picked him up. “I had fun,” he told us. “It was great,” and “I got to play basketball.”

Terrell decided that attending one day a week felt right. After a few weeks, his teacher asked if he wanted to add another day. He thoughtfully responded, “I have to think about it.” A few weeks later, he shared that he would be okay with going two days a week. Watching him consider his options and make a decision at his own pace was another step forward.

One of the biggest areas where we see Terrell’s confidence growing is in his search for employment. He has years of past work experience, but after our move, he had to begin job hunting in a new area. This week, we met with a new agency that will provide employment support. We were incredibly proud as Terrell led his own meeting. When he needed help, he looked to us for guidance, but he answered many questions on his own. Afterward, we told him he did a great job explaining the types of places he would not want to work. He gave us the biggest grin and simply said, “Thanks.”

Access to information, thoughtful guidance, and supportive opportunities have helped Terrell continue building independence. Each new experience, whether horseback riding, attending a day center, or exploring employment, has given him the confidence to advocate for himself and make decisions that feel right for him.

It is so rewarding to see how much Terrell has matured over the years. He is learning to advocate for himself in meaningful ways, taking time to think through decisions, choosing his words carefully, and stepping into new experiences with growing confidence. We are so proud of the progress he has made and excited to see what his future holds.