They told me he'd never speak

When he was five years old, after being diagnosed with severe autism, I was told he would never speak. And that nearly broke me as a mom. Watching this video back, the joy, the love, the determination, it's everything. This kid is absolutely amazing. I couldn't be prouder of him.
For context, Cooper is 13 years old and has a diagnosis of nonverbal autism. He also has Apraxia, which affects his ability to speak. And he's doing amazing.
For more of our story, please grab a copy of my book, Forever Boy, on amazon. Link: a.co/d/5LsKO4H

[@andreaspencer8014]

He's so intelligent - he's so invested in this session. My son was diagnosed before levels were introduced but I assume he would be a level 2. Minimally verbal. I was told he would never read or write but now at 10 he's starting to do both. He works SO hard at it.
I just love watching you guys. I feel so seen and understood. 💙
You are AMAZING, Cooper!! Wish you guys were in Indiana!!

[@susanheinen8587]

Super loved the giggles!

[@catiehays3361]

I haven't watched in awhile, so its good 2 see you guys. I can tell Cooper has grown alot since I last watched. You can tell just by seeing his upper body. He's a big guy!! Can't wait to see what you guys have going on for this summer. Are these kids outta of school yet??

[@JennyTellini]

Thank you for sharing your journey with Cooper. My grandson is 5 and also non verbal. I see he is becoming more cognitive and is able to do tasks when I ask him. He is also babbling a lot more now. Cooper 's progress is amazing. 🥰

[@lisatracy2914]

I love how he counted so fast to 20!😂

[@JaniceTaylor-it3ed]

Wow 😮 ❤

[@susanheinen8587]

Is his frenulum attached under his tongue? My grand had his clipped & it grew back. They did it & it greatly improved speech, chewing more kinds of food. Was great!

[@avagreene3624]

I’m not trying to be negative but no he can’t speak. They told you the truth.

[@JaniceTaylor-it3ed]

I love copper shirt ❤😊

[@HumairahNtambi]

Imagine you're a parent 😢😢😢
Its embarrassing 😢😢

[@tinkywinkywonky6903]

Wtf are you saying!?

[@JaniceTaylor-it3ed]

Do he do special Olympics?

[@JaniceTaylor-it3ed]

Hi

[@JaniceTaylor-it3ed]

When do you live at?

[@JaniceTaylor-it3ed]

How old is he

[@JaniceTaylor-it3ed]

Copper

[@HumairahNtambi]

I wish she could also share the way how she stole our money. Thanks alot madam but God will punish you for what you did

[@jennacadorsey9427]

What are you talking about

[@sueorean3901]

What are you talking about?