When the class size increased, Andrew covered his ears to block out the noise.  The instructor did not appreciate Andrew's behavior and encouraged private lessons.  However, I convinced the instructor to work with Andrew first and then dismiss him.  Andrew continued with his lessons for five years, the same as swimming.

Whenever he had a recital, he would wear a hat.  I do not know "why" he wanted to wear one, but he refused to perform without one. His favorite hat was white with blue trim.  It looked like a hat his grandfather would wear.

One year Andrew performed in the school's PTA Reflection's Contest.  He won first place in the intermediate division for musical composition.  That's right!  Andrew had created his own piano composition.  

Unfortunately, Andrew lost interest in playing the piano after his father bought a computer.  Andrew was hooked!  He learned keyboarding on his own.  Andrew was determined to excel in learning everything he could about computer language.  He learned basic programming before entering middle school.

The swimming lessons, the piano lessons, gaining computer skills, the close-knit relationship with his family gave Andrew the edge.  I truly thought he would beat the odds and live a productive life.  Sure...there were changes...wonderful changes...but Andrew's life was controlled.

In other words, autism in treatable as long as there are interventions in place.  Unfortunately, when one becomes an adult, one must deal with obstacles on their own.  A treatment plan will not suffice.  A cure is what is needed, but I would not know this.  After all, I did not know there was a cure!