In My Hardest Days Parenting a Child With Autism
I was a very outwardly happy person.
I had many friends and family members in my life.
I was a homeowner, successful in my job, etc.
I told everyone I was fine.
I stopped sharing and talking about my life because I didn’t want anyone to know how hard it had become.
I refused to ask for help.
I pushed everyone away.
I was a martyr.
I started to believe that I didn’t deserve to be happy.
I was told ‘you are so strong’.
I completely lost myself.
I was isolated.
I became a caregiver in crisis.
And no one in my life had any idea.
I share this because it doesn’t have to be this way. Our/my hardest ‘parenting’ autism years were ages 4 to 8. And I think if I just would have had a village, or someone to talk too, or someone to listen, or someone who understood….
It would have been so different.
Yes, this diagnosis changes everything. Yes, it’s different than what you pictured. And yes, it’s going to be hard. But you can do this. And you will have a beautiful life.
But first, we need to start talking and sharing. We need to stop judging and start supporting.
You are not alone.
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook.
