When we had Sigrid, we were told that she would never speak or walk.

For 14 years, we have been training her at home based on an American concept. We have also been to the US to learn about the brain.

As parents, I think we should set high standards and help our children become as independent as possible within the framework in which they can develop.

Sigrid has worked extremely hard. She was diagnosed with autism (Asperger's syndrome) and ADHD at the age of 13 and OCD at the age of 14.

I spent a large part of my childhood learning skills. Everything from tying shoelaces to walking, having conversations, and going to school.

Even riding the Metro can be stressful. So we practice that too. The sunflower string helps, as do noise-canceling headphones and sunglasses if the light is too bright.

I'm very proud of how far I've come compared to what I thought I would achieve.

But right now, we're not living. We're surviving.