When I heard Kodi’s mom say that music saved his life I began to cry. I thought to myself what will save Sydney’s life? Will it be cheerleading, track, her love of flowers or drama? By now we have all seen or heard about the talented Kodi Lee, a 22 year old man living with … More Music Saved His Life
IEP etiquette is to bring bagels, muffins or snacks to the IEP team. This is like a peace offering showing you are all on the same side. Food at an IEP meeting reminds me of The Last Supper. Food is the last thing on my mind. I wish I could have asked Sydney’s IEP team … More Jesus Is Better Than Bagels
When I heard the word Autism, Dr. Chugani wasn’t telling me anything that I didn’t already know. When he hugged me and sent me on my way that’s really when I heard the word Autism. I didn’t mind the label because now Sydney would actually get the help she needed. I had no idea what … More The Diagnosis
I wonder if me sharing our autism journey made a difference. Is someone now aware of the signs of autism? Does someone understand the need for sensory friendly events? Will someone smile at a parent trying to comfort their child during a meltdown? Will you embrace the child with a disability that is in your … More Have I Taught You Anything?
I may have played the race card once or twice. It wasn’t what you think. I didn’t use my blackness to get admitted into school, ask for special treatment or to scream racism. It was when I was with friends and they wanted to rent a plane for skydiving and I had to remind them … More Playing The Autism Card
They say weeping maybe endure for a night but joy comes in the morning. This was autism in our home last night. We had an amazing week, and a busy week. We did more this week than we have done in six months. I should have known I pushed her to her limits, but she … More This Is Autism
Special needs parents I see you! I see the pain in your eyes because I’ve been there and some days I’m still where you are now. Here are some things that I don’t want you to do. Don’t apologize for your child’s disability. Don’t feel sorry for your child. Don’t push people away. Don’t hide … More The Do’s and Don’ts of Special Needs Parenting
I’ve canceled the appointment to discuss my estate planning three times. All three times I had valid reasons like I was tired, I didn’t have a sitter and I didn’t want to go. Last week I was reminded of how tomorrow isn’t promised and I need to make a plan and be prepared. I know … More The Future’s So Bright
For so long we waited for that smile to come back and the light in your eyes to twinkle again. For a brief time we lost you and during that time you never smiled. You communicated by screaming, and other aggressive behaviors. I probably wouldn’t smile either if I couldn’t process language and communicate. Or … More Whenever I See You Smile
No, Sydney doesn’t look autistic and you don’t look crazy, yet here we are. If I had a dollar for every time I heard that line, I might be able to be a stay at home mom. Sydney doesn’t look autistic and autism doesn’t have a look. Now autism parents, we have a look let … More She Doesn’t Look Autistic
A Woman's Work - Brooke Basically Blogging 