Autistic 5th Birthday. Mom said to Peggy, “Today is your birthday. You’ll have no gifts, no party, no cake, no candles. But we will say happy birthday, now.” Newly 5 year-old Peggy stood in the dark front hall surrounded by Mom and her siblings, 7 year-old Barry and 3 year-old Sheila. Quietly, they said together, as if rehearsed, “Happy birthday.” Mom said, “That’s all.” There was an awkward silence. Nobody moved. Then Barry called out playfully, “You look like the back of a bus!” Mom interrupted. “Today is her birthday,” she said. “Be nice.” Barry was horrified. “All day?” he demanded incredulously. Peggy was different. None of the family routines applied to her. Sometimes, Mom liked Peggy. Sheila avoided her. Barry’s role was to ambush her. Dad despised her. This year, soon, Peggy’s 75th birthday is coming up. As usual, she is fighting herself for permission to celebrate her own birthday. If she succeeds, it will be the first time. How do you think Peggy could celebrate her 75th birthday?
