Michael and Helen Whelan believed that life after the birth of their first child would be the most amazing adventure. But at 14 months of age, their precious son Charlie's development seemed to stall and Michael and Helen began to realise that something was wrong. Referred to a paediatrician by their GP, they were given the shattering news: Charlie was autistic.
For Michael and Helen, this diagnosis was bewildering, frightening and heartbreaking; neither was really sure what autism was or what it meant to Charlie's, and their family's, future.
The Other Country is Michael Whelan's account of what happened next - the obstacles they faced, the treatments they tried and the people they met. The Whelans story is one of triumphs and setbacks, of tests and uncertainties, and above all, of dedication and love.
Michael Whelan was born in far north Queensland and spent his childhood on cattle properties in the Gulf of Carpentaria and in the remote mining town of Mount Isa. He studied drama, music and creative writing and worked as an actor and musician before taking up an academic position in the Music Department at Queensland University of Technology where he taught courses in songwriting and film music. Michael left university teaching in 2002 to commence his new career as a home-parent. He lives in Brisbane with his wife Helen and two young sons.
ISBN:
9781405038850
Binding:
Paperback
Pub. Date:
01/07/2008
Category:
Autobiography: General
Imprint:
Macmillan Australia
Pages:
240 page/s
Stock:
Out of print
Price:
$32.99 AUD
The Other Country A Father's Journey with Autism
Whelan, Michael
P/B, A$32.99, OP