Family to build group home for autistic son

Rochester, NY - It's a question facing every parent: What is the right time for a child to move out? That decision is even more difficult for parents of children with developmental disabilities. For Sherry and Michael Battisti, the conversation started as their daily routine with their son Anthony became more difficult. "As he's gotten older it has been getting harder and harder to take care of him, and we didn't want to leave our daughter with the responsibility to take care of him," said Sherry Battisti. Anthony is 20 and has autism. The Battistis started looking for a long term home for Anthony a few years ago. "We put him on a waiting list when he was 15. Not because we wanted too. They warned us back then it was about a 15-20 year waiting list," said Sherry Battisti. Instead, they've come up with a new plan. Michael has been a home builder for 35 years, so they decided to build one for his son and five other young adults with autism. "I can't begin to think about the sleepless night we've spent worrying about it," said Michael Battisti. The design is finished, and the property in Gates was donated. The family is also working with a local agency to meet state regulations. The Battistis have also received immeasurable support from friends, family and complete strangers - an aspect that has given them confidence and furthered their belief that they are doing the right thing

[@clararuiz5460]

I wish you were close I worry about my son it's already hard for me now to do it alone he's 15 n I'm so loss

[@KP-rh5qz]

Love this! I love when people find a solution, as opposed to, acting like a victim.

[@taraterm3]

agreed. But its easy to feel the victim when you are constantly barraged with problems, challanges and insane amounts of bureaucracy on top of dealing with a loved ones issues.

[@cyndiet4960]

@@taraterm3 u are so right. My son is 11 and autistic and get bigger and stronger and it scares me to think what he might have to face or me. I don't want to send him to a home but I don't think I will be able to handle him when he gets older as iam a single parent and dad isn't around nor family.

[@MochaQueen5]

Sorry everyone can just build a million dollar home to house their disabled children in.