So it is said that many people with Autism lack the ability to show empathy to others. It is said people with Autism have trouble showing or understanding emotions. I am sure in some cases this is true, but I see much empathy and understanding in Mateo.
At Mateo’s school they have what is known as CARES. It stands for Compassion, Assertiveness, Responsibility, Empathy and Self-Control.
Each week each teacher chooses a Student of the week, actually called Lion of the Week. The theme for this month is Empathy. So each student is chosen for showing Empathy to their fellow classmates.
Guess who was Lion of the week? Well of course it was Mateo!!
Student of the Week!
Here is what is teacher said, “Mateo is awarded for showing empathy. When others are happy, Mateo is happy for them, when others are down, he asks if they are okay!”
WOW- Lion of the week is a big deal! What is a bigger deal is that my little guy got it for Empathy! He is breaking down every obstacle in his way and showing the world- kid’s with Autism can show empathy and have their own way of showing it.
Mateo's Story - growing up with autism. 
Oh my gosh! I love this! Go Mateo! What a proud mommy you must be, Melissa.
This is awesome! Congratulations Mateo!!
Mateo is always empathetic toward his Pop, asking if he is okay when he is having pain, it is so dear. It is wonderful that others recognize it as well. Mateo is such a sweetie and we are so proud of him! What an accomplishment, he is simply amazing!
Mateo is my hero! Everyone should check out this awesome event we have coming up in 2012: the ICare4Autism International Autism Conference in Jerusalem, Israel. You can learn more about it here: http://www.icare4autism.org/2012-conference/
Congratulations Mateo!!!! That is awesome. He must have worked so hard for that!!!