Robert was a very restless baby and only really responsive to the stimulus of touch. A hearing check showed severe impairment but it was hoped that, after operations to remove his tonsils and adenoids and to drain his ears, his hearing would improve and so would his development.

Once he began playschool, however, it was clear to the teachers and to his mum, Jo, that Robert was struggling, but it was to be some time before a diagnosis was reached: Robert had moderate learning difficulties, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, and autism.

During these difficult years, as Robert attended various specialist and mainstream schools, Jo wrote about her experiences caring for Robert and trying to maintain a normal family life with her husband Mike, and their other children, Jennifer and Catherine.

While there were many low moments and periods of
great frustration, Robert’s story is ultimately hopeful and inspiring.

Jo, as she likes to be known, was born in Hampshire and lived with her parents and sister, Jan, in Waterlooville, near Portsmouth, where she attended both the local Catholic primary and secondary schools. Jo loves music and plays both trumpet and piano, as well as having been a member of a local band and choir. Before qualifying as a Registered Nurse, Jo worked at Cadlington House, where she developed her love for children with special needs. She continues to live locally with her son and two daughters.