I am a mom of four, one that I cared for with special needs for 20 years before his passing eight years ago. I am familiar with seizure disorders, tube feedings, suctioning, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, transferring, lifting, autistic behaviors (ABA), and of course the care of children without such special needs. I graduated college with an elementary education degree and taught third grade for five years, before I had my own children. I have worked as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) for the past four years with a multiply handicapped adult male. I have also been a DSP to an autistic CP adult female for over two years. I have volunteered for the past seven years at family retreat camps where I worked one on one with handicapped individuals. I also am a "buddy" to a handicapped young girl in my church during church so her parents can attend service.