I want to dedicate todays post to all parents of ASD children. Harri is only 2 so his behaviours and symptoms are yet to peak. I know our hardest days are ahead of us. The only reassurance I can garner about how we will manage those difficult future moments is that we are starting treatment early, and that there is an incredible amount of emotional support available on the web. Many, many parents have trod a well worn path ahead of us newbies. And despite being battle weary they are still open to offer support and advice for those of us coming up through the ranks.
Harrowing stories abound on Autism chat forums. Parents recount daily challenges of out of control tantrums, heads through windows, refusal to eat, refusal to wear clothes, refusal to toilet, refusal to sleep, nightmares and night terrors, poo smearing, self harming, epileptic fits and so much more. Most of these parents have other children to care for. And many also have more than one child with ASD. Often marriages do not survive the stress, so many single parents are drowning in a sea of constant chaos. Friends and family who misunderstand Autism only compound the trauma.
Despite the continual barrage of seemingly insurmountable stress, these parents get on with it. I'm not an overly sentimental person, but can't help marvel at the power of parental love. After all who else but a mum or dad could tolerate the daily emotional and physical assaults that can come with parenting the ASD kid?
So to any ASD parents who read this. My hat is off to you. You are amazing. And I hope you all see the rewards of your love and commitment come to fruition one day soon.
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