The day your child is diagnosed with autism, everything changes, yet nothing changes. You walk out the door with the same beautiful child you walked in with, but things are different. Your child now has a label.
I thought I was prepared. If anyone should have been prepared it was me. My little girl barely spoke, and I knew she exhibited various traits of autism. She already went to an Early Intervention playgroup, that specializes in autism, three times a week. I spoke with the other children’s parents, during the groups, and I have a degree in pyschology. Yet, I didn’t think she actually had autism.
Many of the symptoms she exhibited, could be explained with a Sensory Processing Disorder Diagnosis. Her struggle to speak, by motor control difficulties. She smiled and interacted with me… well in her own way, so I just couldn’t wrap my head around the possibility that she was autistic.
Last month, we finally had our appointment with the developmental pediatrician. It was raining cats and dogs, and although we got pretty wet, my daughter was in good spirits. She was having one of her “A” days. During our appointment, she was completely her sweet little self. As the doctor asked me questions, I began to realize, that I may have been overlooking some things, or perhaps denying them. Even though I should have been the most prepared parent ever, it still hit me like a ton of bricks to absorb the words. She is on the spectrum.
As I left the office, I felt an odd mix of feelings. I mourned my denial, yet felt relief that the diagnosis may make it a little easier to get her the help she needs. I dreaded the upcoming discussion with my husband. His denial was was a a mighty fortress.
That evening, through his tears, and despite his proclamations that he was going to remain in denial, and that “She was just taking her time”. I knew that it was sinking in. As our daughter did one of her silly dances and babbled some happy jibberish at us, I realized that somehow it would be alright.
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Thanks for dropping by with words of wisdom and kind words for me personally!
My nephew was diagnosed with autism about 5 years ago and it was heartbreaking. I know I am not the parent, but I have a heart for ALL kids. On the spectrum, (forgive my lack of terminology) he is on the severe end.
I feel for you and your husband, but from what I’ve read on your blog, she is a child who has incredibly loving parents who patiently waited for her.
I can’t fathom the parents who didn’t even want a child and now face this issue.
Take care, know you are not alone and seek as much support as you can get. Meanwhile, keep loving her the way you have.
.-= Suzanne´s last blog ..Following The Followers =-.
I used to think my son was a possible autistic. But then we had him tested and they said he didn’t have it. He was just… odd. xD But he had me going there for a while when he wouldn’t talk to other kids, wouldn’t talk at all really. He only said a few words here and there. But yea. He’s clear. But I do know other people with autistic kids. But good luck and I think you’ll be fine
.-= Jenny´s last blog ..Green living the Miyazaki way =-.
Lovely post, thank you for sharing your heart. Not that long ago either. You are now on a different journey, but having been on it myself for the past two years I can tell you it is a difficult one at times, but even more it is a blessing. Anytime you need support just let me know!
.-= tracy@bookroomreviews´s last blog ..Amy Michelle Go Totes Review and Giveaway =-.
I love your blog sooo much.. Im following now.. hugs to you… I’m very involved in autism speaks and I believe your blog will help sooo many….all my love
.-= natalee´s last blog ..Weird Mommy Stuff =-.
My son has many autistic tendencies such as flapping, spinning, etc. but he is very social. He was diagnosed with Chromosome 22q11.2 Duplication Syndrome very recently. Our doctor said many children who aren’t tested by microarray get autism diagnosis for what he has. He is such a sweet smiley baby and our children are perfect and how God wanted them to be!