WELCOME TO JIM'S AUTISM BLOG





Hi everyone and thanks for visiting our blog. My wife and I created this blog to chronicle our experience while raising a son with Asperger's syndrome. Since our son was diagnosed with an ASD at age 5, we've had a lot of questions. Lucky for us we have a great support network in place. And our blog gives us an opportunity to share what we've learned with our readers. We hope you find our blog informative and interesting. Thanks again for visiting.


"It seems that for success in science and art, a dash of autism is essential." Dr Hans Asperger 1906-1980



Monday 30 January 2012

A SAD END TO JANUARY

Today started out normally.  Jacob got ready without issue and we left to go to school on time.  As we got to the corner near our house, we looked towards Jacob's school and noticed that police and fire trucks were positioned in the area.  As we approached, the crossing guard told us that a house was on fire and because of the smoke, school had been cancelled for the day.

Jacob and I crossed the street to have a look from a safe distance away.  Two little attached houses had flames coming from their roofs and windows.  Fire fighters were in lift vehicles trying to extinguish the blaze from all sides.  The water was flowing from above, down through the holes and into the houses.  I haven't seen a blaze like that since Plastimet, and I think this was Jacob's first time seeing something on fire.  "Can I tell mom about the fire?"  asked Jacob.  We turned back and everyone at home was surprised when we came in together.  Jacob told mom about what happened and I did my best to further explain.  We were immediately concerned because one of Jacob's classmates lives in the house next door and his family had to be evacuated.

On the lunch time news, the report stated that one house was destroyed.  But Shannon and I went by to take a closer look.  Both of the attached houses were destroyed.  They had no roofs left and ice was hanging from the hydro lines.  Luckily Jacob's friend was safely evacuated from his house and no one was home in either of the attached houses.

This was a good opportunity for us to teach Jacob about fire safety.  Since Jacob's diagnosis of Asperger's, we've wondered if he fully understands what danger is.  After seeing his face while seeing those houses ablaze, I know he's aware of the dangers associated with fire.

Jacob was upset that he wasn't going to be able to see his teachers.  But when I explained that some families just lost their homes, he quickly redirected his focus elsewhere.  We're all just glad that no one was hurt.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this fire.  More can be read on the Spec's website.


  One home has been destroyed as fire raced through two semi-detached houses on John Street North. The fire, first reported at 6:30 a.m. Monday, was quickly upgraded to a two-alarm blaze shortly after the first crews arrived.  This picture was taken from http://www.thespec.com/

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