The last year or so of my life, I’ve become enlightened. About the way life goes when you’re faced with a challenge.
I didn’t know that I would be given this opportunity to discover life again through a child’s eyes, let alone through the eyes of a child with Autism. It’s been hard on me (as if you couldn’t tell, crazy blog lady here these days) but I have glimpses throughout my week where I feel like I’ve done a good job and made a difference in Jovie’s life.
I think that’s the common feeling amongst the playgroup we go to every Friday. We’ve all been given a challenge, whether it’s Autism, or Down Syndrome, or one of the many other disorders, illnesses or special needs that our children fall under. Last Friday, I looked around the room and every single mum there was smiling. Sure, we may go home and in the quiet of the night break down in tears, but together we are doing this. We’re not alone.
And I think that’s one of the biggest things you have to remember when you’re raising a special needs kid – you’re not alone. Keep reaching out, whether it’s on the internet or in your community – there are people out there going through the same things you are. And talking about it DOES HELP.
I don’t profess to know everything about Autism, but I’m more than happy to share my struggles and triumphs as a mum and as a woman. I’m very happy to listen to yours too.