Due to rising statistics, autism is a word that many people are now familiar with. It is a disorder with no proven cause or cure, but one area family has found a solution for their son.News 12's Jennifer Hudspeth has more about one boy's journey with Autism.Andrew says, "You can't judge someone by the...like they say you can't judge a book by it's cover, just get to know the person better and sooner or later you find out that they're awesome."Sporting a letter jacket and a charming smile, no one would ever guess that Andrew has been fighting a battle his entire life.He has autism...and his journey into the teenage years has not been an easy one.Andrew Gerdts says, "People make fun of me and I feel really bad inside and I really didn't like it."Now, due to several changes in his routine, Andrew's parents have seen his autistic characteristics almost completely disappear.Julie Heinks-Gerdts says, "It wasn't just one thing in particular, the diet was a big thing that helped.We saw a lot of changes when we switched to a gluten free, dairy free, all organic diet."Along with a nutritional diet, Andrew takes plenty of supplements and vitamins, and has undergone hours of occupational and speech therapy.Through this they continue to see Andrew emerge from the world of autism.Steve Gerdts says, "Five years ago, I couldn't see Andrew going to a school dance and hanging out with people.Today, he'll be there and he'll be dancing even if he's dancing by himself."No one is making fun of Andrew anymore, these changes in his life have earned him the respect of his peers.Andrew says, "They respect me and stuff and I respect them back and that's good, respect.Respect someone and they give you respect too."Jennifer Hudspeth says, "The family was so pleased with Andrew's progress that Julie has written a book entitled Andrew's story, explaining their trials and triumphs over autism.She hopes that one day, this story might inspire other families who are in the same situation."Julie says, "I hope that they take away that there's hope, never to give up, and to go with your instinct."Although Andrew is extremely proud his mom was able to share his story, he will continue to live his life just like everyone else.Andrew says, I do what every normal kid does, give her hugs and kisses... borrow money."In Mankato, Jennifer Hudspeth News 12.