I Must Speak About Autism

This is a blog about why I blog.  Well, first of all, I have a lot to say!  And secondly, I love writing.  I have written blogs about Disney vacation planning, eating gluten free, and working in television.  But the blogs that I am most passionate about and that have gotten the most positive feedback are the ones about my kids, especially about Nathan.

Writing a blog while the kids eat breakfast!

After Nathan was diagnosed with autism a few people told me not to talk about it, not to wear it like a badge on my sleeve, and not to look for sympathy.  For years, I followed that advice.  I've never been ashamed of Nathan or his autism, but I didn't want people to feel bad for me.  A lot of times when people hear you have a special needs child, they don't know what to say, and usually end up saying, "Oh, I'm so sorry".  There's nothing to be sorry about, he's one of the many blessings in my life!

But when you don't talk about a major part of your life, it can be very lonely and isolating.  Even today, I often feel alone and I don't always know what's the best thing for Nathan.  I'm not an expert.  I didn't go to school for special education or social work or occupational therapy or psychology or anything else related to autism.  But I did go to school to be a writer!  I can tell my story.  I can tell Nathan's story.  I can help other families who feel like they're alone.

Over the years, I have "met" a lot of other parents who have children who are older than mine, who offer me advice, and let me know what's coming and what to expect in the future.  I say "met" because most of them I've never actually met!  We know each other via social media, blogs, podcasts, etc.  If I can do that for anyone else, why wouldn't I?  So, I'm not looking for sympathy, I'm not wearing my son's autism like a badge on my sleeve, and I'm NOT staying quiet!  I have to do what I can to help other families.  That's why I'm blogging.