On December 18, 1990, my younger sister Mandy was bom. When she had reached the age of two, she was diagnosed with Autism, a mental disorder that separates the person from the world and their surroundings. I was four at this time so I was constantly wondering why my younger sister wouldn’t acknowledge my presence when I would walk into the room or ask her to play with me. My parents tried to explain her Autism to me, but I was too young to understand. Yet Mandy was still my baby sister and I loved her. She seemed to progress with her Autism each year and when she was six years old my parents enrolled the both of us into dance class. I loved it so much. The movements and senses of rhythm with the music were both comforting and enjoyable at the same time.

Mandy was very analytical from her Autism and grasped the concept of the different steps quickly, and she never would forget them. She did an excellent job until recital time came. Right before they went on stage she began to have a tantrum because the darkness bothered her, so she never did get to show her stuff that year. But the next year she went back on for a second try and it was great! Mandy didn’t mind the darkness at all. She now is twelve years of age and better than ever. Many Autistic children can’t speak or communicate to their family members and peers but Mandy does that just fine. She’s quite a talker, like my mother and I! She’s in seventh grade this year and enjoys school more then anything, but favors recess most of all. In a couple years we’ll be in the same school together for the first time ever. I can’t wait to be able to help her and introduce her to some of my friends’ siblings her age.

In the past I’ve gone to Sabattus Elementary School, but Mandy has attended Libby Tozier and Carry Ricker. My mother preferred the programs for Autistic children at that school. Sometimes I was upset that I didn’t get to see Mandy a lot, but now I think it was better that way because we wouldn’t be sick of each other at home! She does well in school, and has mostly regular classes with an aide except for one or two. After school, Mandy loves animals, talking to people and watching her movies. I truly believe that Mandy is the best sister anyone could ever ask for and I am so glad she’s mine. Without her I’d be nothing and absolutely incomplete. She’s wonderful and has taught me so many wonderful things about life that I know I will take with me and cherish forever.