Diagnosis: Unknown

I think it's important early in this blog to explain that my son, Joey, has not to this day received a medical diagnosis of autistic or otherwise.
Joey is a happy, sensitive, and sometimes dramatic almost-7yr old boy. This blog will outline his journey from infancy to the present. Most stories would start with "In the beginning...", but I think discussing the present first and foremost will create a sense of understanding...especially in those who've not been introduced or educated on the meaning of "autistic".
Joey attends 1st Grade at a great school here in SC. Through the school district he is "double-labeled" as academically gifted and autistic. Although he's in a regular class now, he receives extra support for areas concerning social/emotional development. He's no longer in speech therapy because he "graduated", but I'm looking into getting him back into speech because he has issues in the area of receptive language. He doesn't talk or play much with other children, unless they're older than him. And he enjoys the company of adults even more.
But none of what I've just told you defines Joey. He's been labeled visually/spatially gifted as well, testing in the 97th percentile for the visual/spatial cluster. So he's very detail-oriented, artistic, and recognizes patterns where others would not. He's also the most creative, imaginative child of his age I've ever known...other than myself at his age. His mind is in constant "create" mode. He'll write or tell you a story, and sometimes spend hours writing/illustrating. He builds amazing vehicles and structures using Lego blocks. He has an imaginary friend named Joey (not very original for such a creative mind, I'll admit...lol). And his best friend is a large, floppy stuffed dog he named Max.
Aside from his extraordinary creative genius, he's also a kind, gentle, empathetic kid who worries about some of the same things a typical kid might worry about: ghosts when it's dark, water splashing in his eyes, or that he may disappoint someone he looks up to. The only difference is that his fears are set to "super sensitive."
But this blog isn't just about who Joey is now; it's also about the obstacles he faced the last 7 years...and overcame. It's about the challenges yet to rear their ugly heads. There's one very important thing to remember while taking in Joey's story: neither Joey nor his mom will back down from a challenge.