Raising Samuel
Western Kentucky Professor Robert Dietle remains determined to adapt in order to care for his autistic son
“When Samuel was born in 2001, we never expected that he would be on the spectrum,”
-Robert Dietle
-Robert Dietle
When children are born, parents must change and adapt to fulfill their new found responsibilities. While this fact of life is still true for the Dietle family, they were faced with a different set of parental challenges when Samuel was diagnosed with autism in 2005. “Our perspective shifted considerably,” Dietle said, “suddenly it wasn't about, what college is he going to necessarily, but more about how can we get him to, function in society and speak and let people know what he needs and wants?”
Most parents experience their children moving away and starting a life of their own. While Samuel’s condition has improved thanks to occupational therapists and other services, Samuel may never be able to live on his own. The Dietles plan vigorously to ensure a good future for their son with Robert considering retireing early to take care of Samuel full time.
Samuel’s life follows a strict routine. Samuels weekly schedule consists of waking up at 7:00pm every morning, meeting with caretakers and occupational therapists, walking their dog Lilo, going horseback riding at New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding Inc., eating supper and then going to be around 7:00pm. Aside from Samuel’s outdoor activities for his betterment, the Dietles don’t leave the home often for Samuel is not fond of public spaces.
Robert adapts to have a connection with his son despite Samuel preferring to be alone most of the time. “there's affection there on both sides, but he doesn't show a lot of it,” Dietle said, “he, doesn't like to hold hands. He will, you know, he'll blow me a kiss or something when I'm leaving the house, but, you know, you have to adapt. it's not going to be the same to a relationship that, sort of the hallmark card approach.”
"Once you get to be a parent, you love your kids no matter what they can or can't do."
-Robert Dietle
-Robert Dietle
