Autism and Hope

The last several years at this time in December I've thought about our year and what it brought. Each filled with challenges and triumphs and lessons of life that I've been very thankful for. In time.

In October, one of our children was diagnosed with Autism. And actually, once we reached the diagnosis, it was an incredible sense of relief - a name, a focus, an answer, a beginning.

But getting there was a gut-wrenching journey that plummeted us all into a very depressing and heartbreaking place. What can a family do when your loved one is suffering and you don't know why?

Looking back, I've had to work through the regrets. I wished I had understood the signs. I wished that when I looked into autism that I had dug deeper, rather than being thrown off by what I'd initially read. I wished that we had known so we could have done things differently. So our child wouldn't have had to suffer so much. And each time we thought we knew what we were dealing with, we wouldn't have been set back even farther than before. Two steps forward, five steps back.

The greatest gift in all of this, of course, is the diagnosis. Knowing what we're dealing with and getting help. And there have been more lessons learned than I'd have chosen, if given a choice. But I wasn't, and that's the way it is.

Some things I've been reminded of and some wisdom I've gained along the way:

• The importance of a good marriage really presents itself is when you're faced with hardship. I'm eternally grateful for Colin.
• You never really know someone's story. Be kind. Be kind. Be kind. Even something as simple as a smile. There were days when I was so broken that simple kindness made me weep.
• Trust your gut. You know your child better than anyone else.
• Find doctors who are genuinely interested in helping your child. They really do exist.
• Learn to let go of regrets. Regret is like poison.
• Don't waste time on negativity. Move on.
• Be open to true friendship. Friends are a gift.
• Nothing is ever as good or as bad as it seems in the moment. ~John F. Kennedy Jr.
• Be strong. It sounds simple, but taking on the role of Parent means you must be the rock, no matter how hard life can be. You owe it to your child, you owe it to the world.

As I look back on this year, it's best described as a year of healing and hope. No, it hasn't been easy, but whose life is, really? There are so many people facing challenges of their own and that's something that's easily lost sight of when you're suffering. For you, for me, for anyone who is suffering, I choose hope.

Hope

Hope is the thing with feathers 
That perches in the soul, 
And sings the tune--without the words, 
And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard; 
And sore must be the storm 
That could abash the little bird 
That kept so many warm.

I've heard it in the chillest land, 
And on the strangest sea; 
Yet, never, in extremity, 
It asked a crumb of me.

~Emily Dickinson

Comments

[Sanna]

Hi Serena,

So sorry to hear what you´ve been/are going through. I wish you and your family all the best. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and wisdom. You are right, we all face challenges on different levels. One thing I always have in the back of my head is, we have to show kindness for we do not know the whole story. We also have to forgive ourselves for not knowing what we wished we had known then.

Hugs,
Sanna

[Miss Holly]

I have followed you for a long time and have always thought " this is a very special person..." ... I was right....
What an exquisite post...your child is a very lucky to have such a mother...bless you ..
All of life is a journey...all of us are touched with hardships....all of us, however , do not always learn the lessons of the hardships along the way...you have learned and shared...thank you

[Erin]

Your post has touched me, I could have written it, I've felt your pain. Many new year wishes!

[Noelle]

You are blessed to have such understanding for your child. I think how great a well you have to draw upon because of your own past. Who knew the road warriors, who were your parents, would lead you to use all those experiences for your own, precious child? God will give you all the wisdom you'll need to move forward. He gives liberally and without favor. Thank you for opening your heart to your readers and may 2013 hold many opportunities for your family. Praying for you and yours today.

[kathy olkowski]

I am fortunate enough to get to work with children with Autism - they are truly incredible individuals. My heart and my prayers are with you as a family as you move forward with your lives. You are such a beautiful woman who loves deeply and is willing to allow "hope" into your life. God bless you & your family!

[nancy]

Two words...Thank You.

[Elaine]

so beautifully written...what a true blessing a family can be...trust, love, devotion, committment {the never-give-up kind}, togetherness!
xoxo

[Carol]

Sending a hug your way.
I, too, am a mom of a child with autism. She is now 18 and she is such a blessing. She has special gifts my other two children don't have - wonderful insight and humor. It has gotten so much better as she has matured and we have all learned to adapt. It was very helpful for me to find some support from other parents on the same journey.
Love this quote:
“I know of nobody who is purely autistic, or purely neurotypical. Even God has some autistic moments, which is why the planets spin.” Jerry Newport, Your Life is Not a Label

[Laura]

Three of my four children are diagnosed with autism. As one mother to another ~ Thank-you ~ it is the sharing and the kindness that help us realize we are not in this struggle alone.

Laura (Vain & Vintage)

[Serena]

Bless you, Laura. I'm sorry I never knew this about your family, having known you through the show for all these years. Sending you love and strength for what life brings you every day.

[Serena]

Carol,
Your words are both lovely and encouraging.
Thank you.

[Serena]

Elaine, it's true. Family is the greatest blessing. I've always admired your love of family too. It's one of the many things I love about you.

[Serena]

xo

[Serena]

Kathy, Thank you for what you do. It takes a special person to choose your line of work. I'm not sure I could do what you do. Bless you for the difference you make.

[Serena]

Noelle, Thank you for your kind sentiments. I appreciate your kindness very much.

[Serena]

Thank you, Holly. Yes, it is quite a journey, but that makes us who we have come to be, doesn't it? xxoo

[klbexplores]

I have a daughter with significant disabilities who is an adult today. When she was a baby, I knew something was wrong but noone would tell me what they thought. I was angry for a long time. When I finally found out it was if the baby I loved had been switched. I came to understand that she was the same from the moment I first held her, only my dreams for her had changed. You will have new dreams and more important, you child will dream their own dreams like all of our children do. I am happy to report that I was blessed when I realized my job as her Mom was to assist her in realizing her own dreams. Blessings on your journey!

[Serena]

Sanna, thank you for shining your light. I believe your kindness makes the world a better place.

[Kathleen]

My 9 year old son was diagnosed with autism last year. I know exactly of the relief and grief you write about. Thank you for this post, it helps to know that we are not alone.

[lulu]

Oh Serena, Our 32 year old son has Aspergers, when he was in grade school no one would believe that he had a form of Autism, he seemed and looked "normal". Teachers thought he was spoiled and defiant. I have so many regrets about how he was treated and what I did and didn't do. As an adult he has struggled. But he is the sweetest, bravest person I personally know. I always tell him, in fact I just told him this yesterday, a fish can't ride a bike. Good luck, we were so lucky in that we found out early. He was 5, and we were able to get him therapy at a children's clinic. But school and peers were really tough. Let me know if you have any questions, my husband and Drew, our son are both connected to several Autism support groups. He is lucky to have you as parents. OXO

[Nan]

Hi Serena - Thanks for such a beautifully worded post. My grandson Max is 4 1/2 and has autism. He is the most wonderful boy and we could not love him more. The pain of autism runs deep but what these special people offer is so great, we can learn from them and they will heal us. As my friend with 7 kids under the age of 8 once told me, "All kids are special needs!" And isn't it true?!? I have no doubt you have more than enough love, hope and faith to help you and your family deal with whatever life brings...but I'm sending up a prayer for you just in case! xo

[Kelly]

Thank you for sharing your story! It can be hard to be vulnerable and transparent in a place like this but I'm sure your words were an encouragement to so many!

[Theresa]

Hi Serena!
Thank you for this post. I love all the points you made. love. My husband and I work with adults with Autism and numerous other diagnosis. If I was to look into your future, I would tell you everything is going to be ok. New dreams and new hopes for you son. Be brave, dear one. Thanks for sharing this personal information- as it adds a new (better) dimension to you...I actually like you more,if that was possible!:)
Theresa

[[email protected]]

Serena,
Thank you for this post. I needed encouragement today! Even though I my son was diagnosed several years ago, I still sometimes struggle with certain aspects of our life with autism. It has forced me to rearrange my way of thinking more than once, that's for sure. I understand now that the autism is part of what makes my son the gentle, loving and amazing kid he is, and I love that. It's not always easy, but with support from each other, there is always Hope. Wishing you and your family a wonderful New Year full of hope and happiness!

Fielding & Amril

[karen]

Serena,
I have been working with children with autism for 16 yrs. I feel so blessed!
As a parent, you have the right attitude, your child will need an advocate. There are also special services to help him, especially if he is under age 7.
Build on his special talents and love him for his quirks. Help him learn to be appropriate in social situations and just shower him with love.
You will have difficult times, but the blessings will far outway them...
If you have any questions, I would love to try to help!
Happy New Year! karen....

[Stacie M.]

Thank you for sharing your journey Serena. My heart was heavy for you when you talked about walking around so sad before the diagnosis and how simple kindness made you weep. It's a good reminder.

Best wishes for a wonderful 2013.

[Floss]

Hello Serena, and thanks for this post. We received a different diagnosis for one of our children some years ago, and I identify so much with your 'why didn't I spot this? what would have been different if we'd found out earlier?' questions. But, several years on, I agree that the diagnosis is the blessing, and I want to encourage you that from here on in knowing the reality of what you and your loved ones are encountering makes all the difference. Blessings.

[jolie]

Hi Serena,

What a blessing that you shared this with your readers (fans!). I have to admit, I often come here for a little piece of perfection as your work is so sweet, calming, charming...and I thought your life was that way, too. Not that it's a relief that you told us about your son, instead it makes me enjoy you and what you so often share with the world even more. My dearest friend has a son with autism, and I think she's practically perfect, too. :-) I will keep you all in my thoughts, especially your son, knowing there will be many bright days among the hard ones!

[Colleen]

Serena - thank you for your words and story today. I have a 17 year old nephew with Aspergers. It was a long time in coming to a diagnosis for my his and my sister. He is a true blessing to our family. Your words of not knowing anothers trials are so very true. Blessings to you and your family.

[Sue@Serendipity]

Our granddaughter, who will be 3 in February, was diagnosed as being on the spectrum this year and we can already see major positive changes with the therapy she is receiving. I felt something was not quite right and my children acted promptly.

Parents and grandparents: Do be advocates for these wonderful children! Never be content with an "answer" you know in your heart is wrong.

Serena, thank you for addressing this issue and sharing so beautifully!

[Rene Foust]

Thanks for sharing your very touching story. I am really sorry that you have had to experience such pain and grief.I love the poem about hope because I have always believed that of "faith, love and hope" it is "hope" that is the greatest because it is Hope that allows us to keep going when things seem impossible. I wish you peace and joy in this new year coming.

[Kate in NY]

Dear Serena, When my oldest received a diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome many years ago, I was - naturally - bereft. I kept imagining his life - alone - an endless stream of "short" buses and group homes. It was my husband who had to remind me - "Kate, he is still our Liam." And he was right - we would get him the help he needed (many years of OT, speech therapy, play therapy, inclusion classrooms) - but nothing had fundamentally changed about our sweet, good-natured, beautiful, funny boy. He was still Liam! I can only guess that if your son is older then a toddler and just getting his diagnosis now, that his autism might possibly (?) be of the "high functioning" variety (a terrible term really, but . . . ) In that case, I can let you know that for my son, the years have been very kind. A lot of the idiosyncratic, obsessive, repetitive behaviors have sort of fallen away. I'm sure that the years of services played a major role as well, but he passes for "normal" most of the time now. He has friends, interests - and it helps that he looks really cute as well! We still see the signs now and then, and my husband and I will look at each other knowingly - ah, there it is . . . our Liam.

I wish you and your family the best of luck in this journey, Serena.

[Patti]

Blessings to you for sharing. I teach kindergarten at a small Christian school. I have watched some of my autistic students grow up and go thru the grades. They are loved and appreciated for their differences, and have special friends at school. A few are going to college this year. With loving parents and a strong support system, good things are ahead.

[Stacy ~ Sweet Life Farm ~ Applegate, Oregon]

Dear Serena,

Such a beautiful message of hope and pure wisdom, a gift for us all, no matter what we may be facing. I am sorry for your family’s pain and heartbreak.

Thank you for sharing, amazing lady. You are loved and truly admired! There is so much comfort to be found in knowing we are not alone. Blessings for your continued hope and healing!

[teresa]

Serena,

You are an example of the good we can do to influence others. I pray that you have the added strength you need; that those who can help cross your path.

Our youngest son suffered a stroke at birth which has been a invisible challenge for him and us....it's hard for people to understand when they can't see a physical problem.

You are good parents and that is the biggest blessing. He is blessed to have you.
Miracles can happen and will happen when there is faith and kindness in your home.

[Verna]

Thanks so much for being open and honest...praying for you and your family. We discovered this year that our 17 year old son has obsessive compulsive disorder, so understand some of your feelings. Love and prayers coming your way! :)

[Karen]

Unfortunately this path to acceptance is one we each must walk alone, but once you have conquered it you can get down to finding out what works. I was devastated three yrs ago when my son was diagnosed with NVLD, he can't process visual info which interferes with everything from comprehension to math to social situations.

His school kept telling me he just wasn't as intelligent as my other son, but I knew that he was as smart if not smarter. Even after his diagnosis they refused to accommodate him and when they did, they used techniques that weren't meant for him, they felt he was autistic, which are visual learners

So my suggestion to you is that no one will care as much about yr son getting what he needs as you. Schools try to fit them in boxes. Find out what he needs as an individual, and do it. My son at 13 just passed his pilots license, even though he can't get the actually license until he is 17, because he has been taught it all orally.

[heather]

Thank you for feeling safe and available to be open and share, I value that greatly.

I hope this helps you to move on with your new journey.

Life brings challenges but from this we grow.

You've said yourself what an amazing family you and your little one have, for that you will be able to carry on.

Big hugs and well wishes in 2013

[Indiana Lori]

Serena, Sending you hugs. The year we asked for help and the light starting to seep into our world, was the year everything began to change for our family. The labels are hard to swallow, but within them lie the answers we needed to take this journey. Our Sara has a long list, starting with NVLD and Dyspraxia, and now, in our 3rd year post-diagnosis, it's like the sunlight is just pouring in and over all of us. The therapies, meds, right doctors, and gifted teachers have made all the difference, and have shown me the world is filled with goodness. Asking for help and being brave enough to see the truth showed me the way. Godspeed on your path, and hugs to your little one. With you as his Momma, he is already saved.

[Tracy]

As a retired teacher who worked with special needs students, I must say that it was only in my last few years that I gained the knowledge and experience to understand the wide, wide range of signs and "best practices" for those students who were diagnosed along the autism spectrum. I can look back 30 years now and say - yes, now I know what was going on with so and so. Our knowledge has grown exponentially - as have our questions. The one thing that I can say without question is that those students over the years who had loving, devoted and involved parents were the children who had the very best opportunity of living a purposeful life. I have no doubt that your son is one of those children and I wish you the very best in what I know will be a challenging journey, but one that you are absolutely not traveling alone.

[Madge @ The View From Right Here]

I agree Serena, we all need more kindness for we know not a person's story... I'm glad you have an answer and a way in which to point and focus your energy...

[Jo]

Serena,
Hugs to you and your family. Your love for each other will see you through the things that are a head of you. So glad to "know" you.
Jo

[tammyCA]

Ah, you chose one of my very favorite poems since I first read it nearly 40 yrs ago & one of the few things I can actually recite! I also have a child with autism...she was diagnosed at age 2 because the signs were pretty obvious after we adopted her at age 1...she's pre-teen now, still in diapers & basically non-verbal. It is not an easy road for any of the family, but you keep on going & hoping for improvement with their various issues through therapies and whatnot. I know now when I see/hear a major tantruming child, esp. if they are older that it could be autism & overstimulation because I have one who can really throw a fit & bite. We are thankful that she is basically happy & smiley (as long as she has her ipod, dvds)...and, as rough as it has been and, it has been very rough, I am eternally grateful for my healthy children.
Take heart as there are many who you can turn to, both parents and professionals for help.
best wishes,
t.

[bettyann]

Dear Serena..thank you for sharing your journey with us...Be kind to yourself...your son is lucky to have such loving and kind parents.....take care...much love and kind thoughts to you xxxx

[Samantha Cabrera]

Love you Serena! You are so amazing and your family is amazing! You can do this. I am keeping this in my prayers, and I am so thankful that you do have this diagnosis now and can start healing, for your son, and for the rest of you.

[Melissa Vigil]

Serena
I have been an active "stalker" of your website and blog for about 2 years and was just looking at the dates of the antique show for June (as this year it looks like I will be able to make it work to attend my first show!!) when I saw this topic on your blog.

Thanks for posting this; 7 years ago my 10 year old was diagnosed and a lot of the emotions that you have gone through and will go through I can relate. It is quite a journey that I have to say only gets better over time. Hope is a key word my husband and I use b/c without it, you have nothing. We always have hope; always. Hope in your child, your marriage, your family and friends, the community, in life.

See you in June. I can't wait!!

[Spencer]

My only child's only child is on the Autism spectrum as well. It took me months to even write about it on my blog. It was a really tough time... he's 12 1/2 now and doing very well. Things are different, of course, but he's growing making some friends which is SO delightful after spending years on the school playground sitting by the fence alone. I just keep reminding myself that he sees the world differently than we do and his world is just as real to him as ours is to us. Hope really is THE word.... so much hope for this boy who I love with all my heart. Such a gift. Blessings to you and yours as you travel this journey. I think you'll be surprised by the AWESOME gifts along the way too.

Spencer

[Brenda]

Serena . . . what a beautiful post. I so agree with the importance of always having hope. And of not letting regret take on a life of it's own. My oldest had some very tough issues and it took us years to get to the bottom of it and get him the medical help he needed. I too found myself why. Why hadn't I understood the sign? Why didn't we find the solution soon? It made me question my parenting. But looking back, I have seen the good that has come from all of this . . . it has given me a empathy for other I may never have had and the desire to above all, always be kind. Years later, my son is doing very well. He still has some challenges . . . but these are also blessings in disguise . . . because he must try harder than some, he has an amazing work ethic. Because he has known taunting and misunderstanding, he has compassion and love for others.

And . . . just another thought . . . did you know that most children diagnosed with autism have much higher than average intelligence . . . just saying!

Hugs & Blessings,

Brenda

[Brenda]

Yipes . . .good grief . . . I really should have proof read this first. It should say I found myself wondering why. And why hadn't I understood the signs not sign. And sooner instead of soon. I have the flu . . . that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it! ;)

[Erin Campbell]

Hi Serena,
So very much loved your post. Your honesty and heartfelt words are a blessing in raising autism awareness and encouraging for me as a mom to an autisic son. Like you, our son was diagnosed as a teen and if it wasn't for good friends and a great doctor, I am not sure where I would be. Today he had his 15th birthday, and although his days are filled with more downs than ups, its those ups that are seated in my heart and out weigh everything else. His heart is of pure gold and I am grateful for each and every smile, laugh, and sparkle in his brown eyes.
You are a precious momma to a precious boy.
xoxo

[Monica]

Serena, first of all, consider yourself the recipient of a big hug from me. I'm sorry it has been such a difficult year for you. Hopefully now with the diagnosis, things will be brighte. Not knowing can always be the hardest challenge. And you are so right, we must always be kind to people, and show them love, because you never, ever, know what is going on in their lives. Your son is blessed to have such a loving mother as you in his life.

[Grace~katmom]

Serena, So true.... what a beautiful gift,"Hope" is.... if only we choose to accept it and use it...
You are surrounded by beautiful friends, not just in your 'neighborhood', but here in bloggerland as well.
Hugz to you and your family.
Keep Hope & smiles in your heart.
>^..^< grace

[Jen]

Wishing you and your family a year filled with blessings.

[Tana]

Blessings to you and your family. May you find comforting answers to all the challenges you face.
And you are right. Everyone has troubles and the thing that helps is being kind. To everyone. We don't know what problems other people of facing. You should make a poster of your "be kind, be kind, be kind".

[Serena]

Thank you for your note and sharing about dreams. You're a dear. xoxo

[Serena]

Kathleen, Thank you for sharing. I love that we can all support one another. Big hugs from me to you.

[Serena]

Thank you, Lulu. I'm sorry I never knew about this about your son after knowing you for so many years. I'm blessed to know you.

[Serena]

Nan,
Yes, so true. Thank you for the love, and I'm sending lots right back to you and your family!
xo,
Serena

[Serena]

Thanks, Kelly. :)

[Serena]

Theresa,
Thank you for the work that you're doing. I think that takes special people. Bless you.
I do believe that everything is going to be okay.
Love,
Serena

[Serena]

Fielding, Thank you for being such a good friend during this time. Your insight, warmth, and compassion was and is such a big deal for me. Thank you.

[Serena]

Thank you, Karen. So far, so good. School has been compassionate and accommodating. We're very thankful. Yes, the blessings far outweigh the difficult times. Thank you for reminding me.

[Serena]

Stacie, Thank you for your compassion. Each day is better and we are better for the journey. Best wishes to you as well.

[Serena]

Thank you, Floss. I know you understand. Blessings to you in the new year.

[Serena]

Thank you. *Big Hugs*

[Serena]

Thank you, Colleen. I hold your nephew and all children with challenges in my heart.

[Judy D.]

Hi Serena. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted you to know that you are not alone. I have an autistic son (almost 21!), and we have lived an almost normal life. Getting an official diagnosis is the most important step for you. Now, you will find (and be entitled to) school services, outside services, etc...

You are right to "let go of regrets." At times in your life, that will be easy. Sometimes, though, they creep in (and that's okay) and you dream a dream that will not be. Like an autistic child, your life's journey will be wonderful and unique!

[Leisha]

As the Auntie of a beautiful and bright ten year old autistic boy, may I simply send a thank you and smile your way.

[Tammy]

Hi Serena,
I have 2 boys with autism...to sum it up they are very special spirits sent from heaven. They teach me something new everyday. They are blessings!

[Linda]

Serena, my heart goes out to you. I am sorry for this struggle you are all facing as a family. It is difficult for us moms to watch our kids go through something like this. Our daughter's was epilepsy. We have to assume that everyone we meet or run into each day has a difficult issue they are facing. If I remember that, it is so much easier to be kind even if they are grumpy to me. In fact, if they are grumpy, I pray for them because I figure they are having a bad day or season.

Our other daughter worked on a board for autism until last year. All the moms of the autistic kids said that they saw drastic improvement in their children (some were even cured) when they took their kids off of processed white flour, sugar, etc. and put them on B vitamins. That is a difficult thing to do in this society, but I am doing it myself and finding that it makes a huge difference in my health too.

We have found that leaning on the Lord has been our strength because He holds our futures and we have peace in Him alone. I wish you and your family the best.

[Dee Van Ingen]

Hi Serena - Have missed your blogs......for some reason have not come through on my facebook so today when it came through about the Medal of Honor I went back to look at your previous posts. This particular one caught my eye about your son. We never know what comes around the corner and hits us fully in the face! Fortunately you pursued because as a Mother YOU KNEW!!!!! Praying for you and your family........ One of the little girls killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in CT was the granddaughter of a good friend of ours here at the beach area of Delaware. Not only was Joey autistic but she was severely apraxic (could not speak). As her parents said in a statement they released the week after the shootiing "We will not let this tragedy define her life. Instead, we will honor her inspiring and generous spirit...........It's our way of dealing with this pain and never letting go of her love." And so I say to you, no matter what you go through, the tough times make us stronger and the love surrounding you and your family will help you stand tall! Hugs to you, Dee

[Lori]

Serena
Late catching up on blogs, but had to write to you today. My son is 27 years old and was not diagnoised with Autisim till age 13. At 7 he was diagnoised with depression. Depression? I knew that my son wasn't functioning appropriately for his age but this was way off to me. Going back a bit more I knew since my son was 1 that something was wrong, delayed speak, walking and so forth. His pediatrician wrote at one point "supermom" on his chart because I always wondered about his delays. Supermom, what? I was told by at least four other docs in five years it was just my problem, they felt I needed to quit thinking about what my other two children had done at certain ages and comparing to my son,who was my third child. With tremendous patience and effort I quit asking and worked with my son. At 12 a very observant school counselor said she felt there was more to his diagnoised and she too disagreed with his original depression label! She found me a new doctor a child psychiatrist and BINGO at 13 Autistic! That fall he entered 8th grade with a IEP, and finally began to function better and more confident, yes he did have meds as well. A new kid, one finally understood!! Yeah! Currently Andrew is in Spring session at a ommunity college, at the end of this semester he will offically be a college Sophmore, his major is to be a Medical Asst. and one day work with cancer patients or Hospice, incredible isn't it? The kid who struggled so often, often misunderstood by teachers and peers and who always had mom fighting for him. Did I have guilt it took so long? Oh yes, and I did beat myself. However, I was told had I maybe known sooner and posibly not pushed a little more to get him to learn he wouldn't be who he is today! Do read ALOT!!!! Do advocate alot!!! So many think that Autistic means not speaking, and so often those diagnoised later in childhood or teens have been overlooked because teachers and physicians think they are just shy and quiet kids. As one put it to me, "Just back off some, he'll move along fine mom" with a pat on my knee! Well that's the past, no lookin back. Yes, my son does get minimal help in school, worst course, math! But I am optimistic! One more year and he will be almost ready to graduate. Even today all these years later I read all I can to inform others. Blessing to you and your family and good luck in this big ole crazy world! Lori

[Jade N - Ahhprods.com owner & Mom]

Hello Serena,

I stumbled upon your post while exploring on Pinterest (found your cool DIY clouds). I found this particular post inspirational and have shared it with our social media readers, as we have many customers who manage and overcome autistic/spectrum issues daily. I hear how difficult it is, but also how amazingly rewarding it can be as well to have an autistic child. I do not have personal experience with autism, but I am a parent who sometimes can barely make it through the day! I want to share my company with you, in case what we do could be helpful to your family and readers. I offer bean bag chairs, and believe it or not, our products have been used with great success to help autistic children in many ways (nesting and focusing being the main ways). I own the company and normally don't personally post my website in too many places, but I thought this would be helpful (I also work with Autisable and Autism Speaks). Here it is: http://www.ahhprods.com

Sincerely,
Jade

[Serena]

Sue,
Thank you for sharing your advice with others here. Very wonderful of you to do so.
xoxo,
Serena

[Serena]

Thank you, Rene. Please know I wish you peace and joy as well.
Love, Serena

[Serena]

Dear Kate,
Thank you for sharing your story. It's stories like yours and that of Liam that can give so many families hope.
Thank you for your well wishes and I wish them right back to you.
Love,
Serena

[Serena]

Patti,
It sounds like your school is a wonderful place to be. Thank you for your kind words.
Hugs,
Serena

[Serena]

Stacy,
I agree, there's much comfort in knowing we're not alone. :) Blessings to you as well. Thank you for taking the time to share your love.
xo,
Serena

[Serena]

Teresa,
You bring up a good point -it's hard for people to understand when they can't see a physical problem.- I agree, and that's a good thing to be reminded of.
I too believe in miracles and love.
Thank you for your kindness.
Love,
Serena

[Serena]

Verna,
Thank you for connecting here and sharing. Yes, you understand. Sending love right back to you.
Hugs,
Serena

[Serena]

Karen,
I do believe that as moms we know our children better than anyone and always need to advocate for them. Your son's life is better because of you.
I'm thinking of you tonight and the challenges you and your family face. You are loved.
Hugs,
Serena

[Serena]

Heather,
Thank you. :) I'm sending you hugs and well wishes right back.
xoxo,
Serena

[Serena]

Lori,
I love to read that sunlight is pouring in all over your family. That makes me so happy.
May you continue on this light-filled path.
Love,
Serena

[Serena]

Thank you, Tracy. You bring up a good point. The last few years have really begun to shed light on autism.
I feel very blessed to have so many resources, books, experts, doctors, and a world of families to turn to. I realize that just a few years ago, it would have been very different.
Thank you for your kind sentiments.
Hugs,
Serena

[Serena]

Thank you, Madge. :)

[Serena]

Thank you, Jo. So glad to know you as well. :)

[Serena]

Tammy, thank you for sharing your story. It's impossible for me to fully comprehend the challenges you face on a daily basis. Your positive outlook is contagious.
Hugs,
Serena

[Serena]

Thank you, Bettyann. Sending you love and kind thoughts in return.
xo,
Serena

[Serena]

Samantha,
Thank you. And thank you for listening when this was unfolding. I'm thankful for you.
Love,
Serena

[Serena]

Melissa,
Thank you. I too believe that it gets better over time. I appreciate you sharing your story.
I hope to see you at the show.
Love,
Serena

[Serena]

Spencer,
Thank you for sharing. Your honesty about your own experience is both heartbreaking and hopeful to read.
I appreciate your well wishes and return them to you and your family.
Serena

[Serena]

Brenda,
Thank you for sharing your son's story. It takes a lot of courage to do so.
I'm so happy to hear your son is doing well.
Bless you and your kind spirit.
Love,
Serena

[Serena]

Erin,
Thank you for sharing. I'm happy to know you and what a wonderful mom you are.
I understand being grateful for every smile, laugh, and sparkle. To me, that is hope.
Love,
Serena

[Serena]

Monica,
Thank you for the hug and your sentiments that feel like sunshine.
xoxo,
Serena

[Serena]

Thank you, Grace.
I am keeping the hope and smiles and sending them to you and yours. We can all use a little love. :)
xoxo,
Serena

[Serena]

Thank you, Jen. I wish you and your family all the same.

[Serena]

Thank you, Tana. Sending you love and light, right back.
xo,
Serena

[Serena]

Thank you, Judy. I appreciate you sharing your story, which fills me with hope and happiness.
We are not alone.
Love,
Serena

[Serena]

Thank you, Leisha for the smile. I'm sending a great big smile right back to you. :)

[Serena]

Tammy, I agree. xoxo