On Autism and a Death in the family

Last week my father died. My kids loved Grandpa - the "grey Grandpa" they called him. He wasn't particularly sick nor old and he left us way too soon... Obviously not expecting this to happen, I had no idea or really given any thought on explaining the topic of death to the kids - particularly to Alex.

I wanted to shelter the kids and keep them away from the wake, funeral and all the sadness. I feared that Alex might scream or meltdown and do something "inappropriate" during this sad time. I worried that the military funeral with the gun salute and taps would upset him. I spoke to his teacher for guidance and am taking it one day at a time. So far, the one who has asked more questions is my daughter - just 4 years old and NT... she wanted to know how you get to heaven out of "the box that looks like a table" and if we can take an airplane to heaven to say good-bye to grandpa?

With help from friends and family we made it through a very painful and sad week.

We love and miss you, Grandpa.
12/09/1943 - 6/01/2009