Everyone always focuses on the negatives of an autism diagnosis. Myself included. So today I figure I will focus on the positives of an autism diagnosis.
- Autism is not a fatal diagnosis. Yes it does mean a very difficult road ahead but at the end of that difficult road is life. My child will not die from autism.
- Autism is not a one-size-fits-all. In the case of Sam his autism is most definitely his own. He is a loving, connected, funny, cute, huggable, goofy, artistic, music loving kid – and so much more. What he is not is withdrawn, stuck in a corner unable to speak, not showing any love or affection for anyone around him. I know I am lucky in this because my son will tell me he loves me and my son will hug me. I know for many parents of a child with autism that is not the case.
- Autism teaches adults things they didn’t know was possible. For me, caring for my son has taught me that human beings have a capacity for patience I didn’t even know was possible. Without Sam I do not think I would have the patience for everything in my life that I have today.
- Autism brings interesting people into your lives. We are extremely lucky that the therapists Sam has are as amazing as they are. Without them, Sam would not be doing as well as he is doing- and I would not be as good of a parent to Sam as I am.
- Autism has allowed Sam’s sister to shine even brigther. I always knew Irene was amazing and wise beyond her years, but watching her with her little brother is a beautiful thing. She knows he is different, she knows he is not a “normal” little brother, and aside from a rare big sister jealousy moment, she just doesn’t care. God help the person that teases Sam for being different. They will discover just how amazing his big sister is right quick.
- Autism has brought me access to Sam that most parents never have. This may be my favorite part of Sam’s autism. Because of his therapist attending preschool with him I get pictures and videos throughout the day of sampling, interacting, laughing, and succeeding along with the neurotypical kids. Who could find a negative in Autism when I get pictures and videos like this texted to me:
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These are just six ways autism has bettered my life. I can’t wait to hone in on more ways!
This is a GREAT post! Although I didn’t think so in the very beginning (10 years ago) when my daughter was diagnosed with autism (PDD-NOS), there are so many doors and wonderful adventures we’ve been led on and so many amazing people we’ve met. She’s really flourished!
I remember reading a book that was full of negatives — I got rid of it immediately. Another book I read was incredibly positive — I kept that one! Sure, there are always challenges, but somehow you step up the challenge and become better for it.
Your son is adorable, and he’s very lucky to have such a positive, pro-active force in his life for a mom. And there are so many options for kids afflicted with autism. We cannot predict the future, but I think it’s a bright one for kids with autism.
Thank you so much for your kind words. I have gone out of my way not to read books on autism – because I know each kids autism is their own. I will learn from him and his therapists. I am exited to watch him grown, learn and develop. Who knows what his future holds.