My son is autistic. The severity of his challenges puts him in the category of individuals significantly impacted by autism. It makes things that are seemingly easy for many, a struggle, and sometimes borderline impossible for him, like getting his feet sized, putting a particular style or kind of clothing or accessory on him, or…
Ever since my son was diagnosed with Autism, I have been fortunate enough to have a very supportive group of family and friends. However, inspite of being surrounded by people who love us, surprisingly, we often feel rather lonely in our journey, like standing alone in the middle of a crowd. When people see us,…
Like most individuals on the autism spectrum, my son has his fair share of challenges. Most days, we are focused on how to enhance his life experiences and enable and empower him towards a more independent life. I know that people probably look at him and either pity him or sympathize with us. However, in…
Since my mom passed away 9 yrs back, I have made it a point to call my dad every morning and evening, almost every day. Most days the call ends in less than 30 secs, but some days we drift into a conversation that’s different from the routine. Those are the conversations that make these…
They say, “I understand” is one of the kindest 2 words that you can say to someone. But is it? Does it really mean they understand? I have come across so many people who have said they understand our struggles, challenges, and even our joys that can come from the most ordinary of things. But…
If I had a penny for every time someone has suggested that since my son has autism, he must be a whiz kid, or a child prodigy, I would be a millionaire by now. I am not sure if I should laugh or get upset over their gross ignorance. The media — social, print, and…
I was recently interacting online with the mom of a little boy who is on the autism spectrum. She said that although her boy was bright and could spell words and add numbers as per his grade level, his teacher was not ready to give him the scores he deserved !!! Her rationale? Well, although…
Being a mom is a feeling that’s hard to explain. Add to it a layer of being a special needs mom. No matter how closely you’ve known a family of a child with special needs, you’ll find it extremely difficult to understand their emotions – the joys they find in little things, the challenges they…
If I had to list the top 3 things my son enjoys, it would be 1.Water 2.Water 3.And water. So chances of finding us at a pool in summer are always higher than at home. That day was no different. We were at our community swimming pool, watching our son living his life like he…
Many have asked me how it felt when my son was diagnosed. I’ve tried thinking back to that moment and all I can see is a blur. I don’t remember that instant. I was probably numb and dumbfounded. I don’t recall any feeling going through my mind. That was how hard the diagnosis struck me….
