For the longest time I knew something wasn't right with my son. He started out reaching milestones amazingly and then all of a sudden it just stopped. I talked with his doctors about it, my family, and friends, everyone told me he is just learning slower than some and that he would come around. In April of this year I found out he has Autism. Many people asked me, "Doesn't that scare you? Are you upset?" My answer was no. To be honest I was grateful to finally have answers.
The day after I found out, I started doing research and became extremely overwhelmed with everything I was reading. One of my friends told me I should probably let the diagnosis settle in before looking stuff up. I did, for a few weeks I let it settle. I slowly began researching again, staying away from a few sites, and got a few books. The past few months have been extremely busy with appointments and therapies, but I'm still going strong.
At the end of the day, I can look at my son Landon, he's 2 almost 3, and smile. He has the biggest heart, the biggest smile and the most amazing laugh. He truly is an amazing child, and Autism or not, he's still my son. To me he's normal and that will never change. He has his moments of frustration which also makes me frustrated but then I sit back and think of ways I can help him. Ways I can better his life, and make him more comfortable.
One thing I wasn't expecting with this diagnosis was the amount of people who will be there to talk to. The amount of people who care, or want to know more. It's absolutely amazing how a diagnosis can bring so many people together, how so many people can share their stories, and just talk. My words to families who find out their child has Autism is that you are never alone, there are so many people to help you, who understand, and who can talk to you.
Groton, CT
