February 15, 2017

Ramblings of an Autism Mom Around Acceptance

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My favorite topic to blog about! I’ve been noticing a trend. Every morning for the past few weeks I wake up to dozens of emails from parents looking for hope, help and guidance.

I TOTALLY UNDERSTAND.

I did the exact same thing when Cooper was younger. I would stay up late…usually after some sort of meltdown or a particularity hard day. And I would search for a blog where the child reminded me of Cooper. And  I would reach out. And in a really weird way I would feel guilty for reaching out to a stranger. But it was so much easier to say all of my worries to a stranger. If I said them in real life it felt too real. I felt like a traitor. I felt weak and embarrassed.

First, keep emailing me. Keep reaching out. It’s good for you and and it’s good for me. I enjoy hearing from you.

Second, I spent the day thinking about how I got to the well rounded peaceful place I am today. BAHAHAHAAAA! That was a joke. I am a mess. But I am a mess who smiles and laughs and is mostly at peace with her place in life.

How did I get here?

I gave into Autism.

Let me say that again. I gave into Autism.

I gave up the perception of what I wanted life to be. It was really hard at first.

I wanted to go out to dinner and join friends at events and go on family vacations…but, unfortunately, we couldn’t do those things. And the second that I accepted that I was able to relax and find peace.

Check out my video. I give more details. Hugs to all of you!

https://www.facebook.com/findingcoopersvoice/videos/812883272187469/

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Kate Swenson

Kate Swenson lives in Minnesota with her husband Jamie, and four children, Cooper, Sawyer, Harbor and Wynnie. Kate launched Finding Cooper's Voice from her couch while her now 11-year-old son Cooper was being diagnosed with autism. Back then it was a place to write. Today it is a living, thriving community of people who want to not only advocate for autism, but also make the world a better place for individuals with disabilities and their families. Her first book, Forever Boy, will be released, April 5, 2022.

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1 Comments

  1. eveysmom on February 16, 2017 at 4:30 am

    I just want to say thank you. Your page has really helped me feel less alone in life. My daughter will be 6 in May. Her autism is on the severe end of the spectrum. She is non-verbal, still in diapers, etc. Thanks again for sharing.