When it comes to my child with autism, I’m not overwhelmed by sadness. Instead, my heart aches for all the complexities that accompany autism, such as debilitating anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, sensory processing challenges, hyperactivity, and the intellectual disabilities that can complicate life significantly.
During Autism Awareness Month, these issues often go unmentioned. My social media feeds are filled with uplifting memes and stories celebrating individuals with remarkable talents. While I appreciate these positive narratives, they often feel one-dimensional, leaving me grappling with the reality that this will not reflect my child’s journey, not in the slightest.
I have a nearly 13-year-old son who still believes in Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. He finds solace in watching children’s videos like Baby Einstein when he needs to unwind. His bedroom resembles a chaotic explosion of toys from the Island of Sodor, and I find no sadness in his disinterest in typical teenage pursuits. Quite frankly, I’m not even sure what those are—what do teens today enjoy? They seem like such enigmatic beings, not particularly interested in hunting down rare Blue’s Clues DVDs on eBay. Thank you, online marketplaces!
What does upset me is when planning an outing, the excitement is often overshadowed by stress and the need for backup plans—because, too often, things have gone awry. Some days, the anxiety makes me hesitant to venture outside our comfort zone. My son has a remarkable ability to sense my hesitation; he can tell when I’m uncertain. Just once, I wish I could share something that should make him smile without needing to rely on a social story to accompany it.
What truly saddens me is the disconnect. For every inspiring story shared by friends, I often wonder: do they truly comprehend the daily challenges we face? The worry, the stress, the frustration—this isn’t sensationalized news; it’s our everyday existence.
And while I’m grateful for the support of those who read this article, I wish more people could understand our reality. I might invite them over, but that too comes with its own set of stressors—unless they bring fries, of course, because who doesn’t love fries?
This is the essence of autism that I wish to bring to light during Autism Awareness Month.
If you’re interested in exploring more about home insemination, check out this post on intracervical insemination. Additionally, for those seeking guidance on home insemination kits, Make a Mom offers valuable insights. For more information on what to expect during your first IUI, visit this excellent resource on Parents.
In summary, the complexities of autism are often overshadowed by inspirational narratives. Understanding the daily realities can foster greater awareness and empathy.