Bethlehem Woman Writes Book About Son Struggling with Autism

A second chance. It's not only the title of a Bethlehem mother's new book...it's also the theme of her life.

To say Sandra Gerencher has her hands full is an understatement.

On top of being a Special Ed teacher in the Bangor school district, she's also a single Mom to four. PJ, Shelby, Ramsies, and 13 year old Terry.

She adopted Terry, who has severe Autism 5 years ago. Asbergers, Autism, Mental Retardation. You name it he has it, seizures.

The dogs were rescued too. Ramsies is from a high kill shelter. Ramsies followed Terry where ever he went.

Terry's bond with dogs started when he first moved in with Sandra.

When adopted said he could never talk in full sentences. When he talks to dogs he does in full sentences.

Sandra recently put that bond to paper in a book called Second Chance. It teaches kid's about adoption. A lot of technical books out there but none, kid's can really understand.

Sandra's pooches, past and present, she's adopted 7 within the past 10 years, share the page with Terry. The dog simplifies what adoption is and puts in terms that a child can understand.

For Sandra adoption means a Second chance. Not only for Terry PJ, Shelby and Ramsies but also for her.

I was lonely, missing something in my life. I wanted to be a Mother and that's what a second chance is.

Sandra's book is available on Amazon.com and at Barnes and Noble.com

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• shelter
• dog
• animal
• welfare
• humane
• society
• autism
• autistic
• adopt
• adoption
• foster
• parent
• special
• needs
• disabled

[malchichikov]

I don't particularly find the parity between "two legged Terry" and the dogs that "were rescued too" all that tasteful. What the hell is wrong with these news anchors?

[carol3hawks]

You are wonderful and your heart shines! I too wrote a book covering the first 22 years of my sons life. He has Downs, Autistic catatonia, and is also Bi-polar. The connection between dogs and autistic children is also in my book...Fantastic success to you in all your special things you do , CarolHawks

[Danacrumb]

what a precious boy! thanks for posting!!! What a great mama you are!!!...our son is in the process of being diagnosed as well. i have a few videos of him on here to take with us to his next appointment in june.