My cousin was born at home, at the insistence of her grandmother. The birth was very difficult and the baby, (she), didn't get enough oxygen to her brain. She used to be called 'backward' and 'retarded'. She's now diagnosed as autistic. She has a job in a college library, after passing typing exams, (which were difficult for her), but she's overcome appalling shyness in social situations and can hold a conversation now. She loves letter-writing and is always very punctual at sending birthday/Christmas cards. I can always spot her cards and letters, as her writing is very distinctive. She now has her own flat and travels by bus to see her Mum a few miles away.
She is a completely different woman from the 'invisible' little girl I knew. Her progress is astounding and I'm sure that her Mum is extremely proud of her achievements.