Perhaps I should remind you that not too long ago, Anson was a youngster with many uncertainties in his life. I, as his parent, was equally uncertain of our future and didn't know where it would lead us. Everything from his education, to the way our society perceived disability seemed so bleak to me. In Anson's younger years, we went through many ups and downs. While many tears were shed over the challenges of his education, he could lighten the mood with his somewhat comical, idiosyncratic behaviors. As many of you who know Anson know, we can't possibly take life too seriously. If we do, we will go insane!

My love for this young man, Anson Manning, has no boundaries. My philosophy has been quite simple. Fight it, take it to the limit, and win it. I often remind myself, "What is there to lose if I try?" In many ways, I've felt that I am Anson's eyes, I must look out for him. I am his ears, I must pay attention for him. I am his voice, I must speak out for him. All this due to one fearful word, one that is all too familiar to many of us today, Autism. Anson's autism has inspired me to do many things that I would otherwise not have done. As a result, my life with him has been moments of everything. It is not easily described in a few sentences. However, I am pretty sure you understand what I mean.

My note is not intended to share my whole life story with you. However, I felt that it is important to share with you, whom we cherish as our friends and acquaintances, Anson's upcoming High School Graduation! Yeah! Without sounding too religious, I believe the Lord above is really looking out for both Anson & I. I do believe that we are both a very deserving Mother & Son. We have felt very blessed with our lives and the Lord knows that we have not taken it for granted.

So, having said that, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for being there for us. For lending us a helping hand when we needed it, for giving us a shoulder to lean on, for being great team players, and most importantly, for believing that we can all fight autism together to make life a better place for those like Anson. Today, it isn't just Anson that succeeded, it is you who have been a part of his life. Therefore, I will forever be thankful for your contribution. Whether in a small way or in a big way, you have made an impact in the life of Anson Manning. THANK YOU! YOU ROCK!

Here are a few of Anson's achievements: He's an artist. He paints beautifully and I might add, with a great passion. He is also a photographer. He photographs all kinds of things, from sidewalk, to roads, to license plates, trashcans, garden soils, mittens, grocery stores, bookstores, people from all walks of life. You name it! He performs so well by himself INDEPENDENTLY.