We Beat Autism and Will Keep Stomping It

The day my son was diagnosed with Autism (PDD-NOS) was the day I thought I mourned the loss of the son I dreamed of. At that time I did not know how much our son would accomplish and beat his challenges. I would like to go back in time and tell myself, "You and your husband will lift your son up and fight for his quality of life and he will win".

As we were walking out of the doctor's office, she stated something that has always stayed with me, "Your son is still the same boy he was before you walked in here, do not love him any different." That was such a strong statement that set the path how I was going to treat raise our son. From that day forward we worked hard with Speech Therapists and Occupational Therapists. He went from no words to full speech.  My boy is a fighter and worked so hard to prevail over his challenges. When it came to discipline, we knew he had understanding from right and wrong so we were sure not to give him breaks. We did not use his challenges as a crutch. We expected of him the things he was capable of.

He is nine years old now. As I look back on what he has overcome, I appreciate and cheer big for the 100 on his spelling test, his swimming skills and he's so charismatic he makes a room full of ladies giggle. There's many times that I remember the past and I am blown away how much he has come forward. Life is not easy and our struggle is not over. We are winning and we will keep fighting to provide the best quality of life for our son. It's what we were called to do in life and we will do our best.

I no longer think of the son I dreamed of because the son I dreamed of when I was pregnant is right here in front of me. I admire his determination and giving heart with moments he annoys his mama. I tell him often he is our gift from God that I enjoy every other day. You know mamas what I mean by every other day. Wink.

Parenting is hard. I feel like we move from one struggle to another. We take it one day at a time, do our best so our son can lead a life without boundaries.

We praise God for the triumphs we have been blessed with. God is the center of our family and we are living His will. We live with faith, hope and never ending love.

I share our story in hopes to inspire.