TURNING 18 is a big occasion but for Gauge Harland it was particularly special.

Gauge suffers from autism and finds it difficult to make friends his own age so for his 18th birthday on Wednesday his mother Sonya Harland organised something unique.

"We wanted to make the day memorable for him so we asked around on Facebook for anyone interested to send him a birthday card and the response was amazing,” Mrs Harland said.

"Gauge suffers from autism and although a lovely and good natured man he doesn't like big crowds and finds it hard to meet new people and those his age.

"I am really his best friend so it was important that for this special birthday he was surrounded with love and support.”

Over the past week cards have come from all over Australia and even a few internationally, all wishing Gauge a happy birthday.

"We've received 86 cards from across Australia and even received two sent all the way from England which Gauge was just rapt to see,” Mrs Harland said.

She said the contribution and love and care of those who sent Gauge a card was priceless, including one notable letter received from a Roma resident.

"There was an elderly woman in particular who was very very sick and sent her letter through at the end of last year because she wasn't sure she was going to live long enough to see Gauge's birthday.

"She took time out of her precious life as did all those who sent a letter to celebrate his and that really took us aback.

"This has been a massive boost for him.

"And as a parent I have never really seen him as happy as he was on his birthday and we are so thankful to all those who sent him a card, it means a lot.”

With 86 cards already received and more expected to arrive over the next few days it is sure to be one birthday that Gauge will never forget.