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AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH
- Mar 31, 2008 at 4:25 PM
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- Comments (33) Total Views (1026) Everyone can see this journal post.
As we enter into April and Autism Awareness Month is upon us, there are just some things I'd like to say.
First to my wonderful husband: I know raising a child with autism is not always easy, but you have always been the strong one, always concerned, protective and loving towards our son, daughter and me. Our marriage has definitely grown stronger through the ups and downs we've encountered. You are the greatest husband and father and I love you with all my heart.
To my sweet little daughter, Natalie: Right now you probably don't understand a lot about your brother's autism, you are only 2. You just see a big brother who plays and laughs with you. You love him unconditionally. You look up to him. I have every reason to believe that it will always be that way, even as you learn more about autism. My heart swells with joy whenever I see you two together. I would do anything for both of you.
To the rest of my family (my parents, brother, in-laws, etc.): I can't tell you how much it means to have your support and understanding. You are always there, always asking about Nathan's progress. Anytime you hear something about autism, you contact me to see if I've heard it. You have educated yourselves and supported this cause. God truly blessed me with the greatest family.
To all my friends that do not have a child with autism: Thank you for being there for me and for being so understanding. Over the years you have always been supportive of this cause and have shown your concern for Nathan. But probably the greatest thing you've done is helped your own children to understand about autism in the best way you could. Making friends with typical children isn't always easy for a child with autism, but your children will always be lifelong friends of Nathan's as you have been of mine.
To those friends of mine who do have a child with autism: You are all godsends to me. We have shared our children's struggles and accomplishments alike and we all know not to take anything for granted. We can laugh and cry together about our children because we understand each other. Thank you for sharing your advice and I hope some of mine has helped some of you also. We are all in this fight together. This is the time to make everyone aware. Let's go get 'em!
To the teachers and therapists who have helped get my son to where he is today: Thank you so much for caring enough about Nathan to help him realize his true potential. You have made such a difference. Your constant communication with us has meant so much. You've seen him as an individual instead of a face in the crowd. Thank you for helping to slowly bring our son back to us.
To all the networks (such as CNN and VH1), sports organizations (such as NASCAR) and big-name companies (such as TJ MAXX and Toys R Us) who have used their well-recognized status to promote awareness: Thank you for stepping up to the plate for our kids. You are helping to get the word out about autism and everything you do is hugely appreciated. Thank you too to the countless celebrities who have appeared to tell how they have been touched by the same disorder that has affected my family. I had no idea there were so many that have! It helps to know you are there too.
To all the autism awareness and research organizations out there: I am proud to say I am a member of many of these great societies (Autism Speaks & Autism Society of America to name a couple) and appreciate all the information you have given me. I get so excited when I hear about another walk or fundraiser, another opportunity to help my child and so many like him. You are great resources and your tireless efforts will help get us closer to the day when autism is non-existent.
To everyone else out there: In the next month, you will see and hear a lot about autism. I advise you to take in all you can about it. With a child being diagnosed somewhere in this world every 20 minutes, it is likely that if you haven't been touched by autism, someone you know has been touched by it or knows someone who has. Get as educated as you can. We autie moms are tired of being judged any time our child has an uncontrollable outburst. If you know more about autism, you'll probably be less likely to make an unwelcome, uneducated comment.
And finally, to my Nathan, who this fight is all about: You have come so far. I know it is as hard for you to be in that world they call autism as it is for all those who love you to see you in it. We will always work hard every day to ensure a bright future for you. You mentioned to me this morning, as you have several times, that when you grow up you want to be a NASCAR driver. I see nothing stopping you! I LOVE YOU!
This is one of the many faces of autism. This my son. This is why I will always keep up the fight.
Comments:
From one autie mom to another~ THANK YOU!!!!!
Fantastic post!!!
This is just beautiful. Your children are so lucky to have such a smart and loving mommy!
Thank you for such a loving and heartfelt post.
From one Auti-Mama to another. God bless you and yours!
That was very touching,thanks for sharing that.
From another Autie-Mom,God Bless
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