I used to be very cautious about what I will say to others about why my kid is behaving in a certain way.
( hindi ko masabi upfront na, it’s Autism. I would give reasons like… panget lang ang gising kaya wala sa mood, etc. )

I used to feel I owe people an explanation sa actions ng anak ko,
( parang automatic akong nagsosorry sa iba, kasi feeling ko nabobother sila ng son ko)

I used to be so conscious of the stares and side comments of people na nakakakita sa mga stimming behaviors, and sometimes “meltdown” moments ng anak ko

I used to be so overwhelmed sa mga UNSOLICITED advice ng mga taong, wala naman sa posisyon ko and hindi naman naeexperience ung same experience ko, as a mother of a kid on the spectrum.

I USED TO CARE A LOT ABOUT THESE THINGS… and then I REALIZED, the only thing I should care about is MY AUSOME SON.

The most freeing moment in my AUSOME PARENTING JOURNEY, was when I STOPPED CARING about what other people may say or think about me or my kid. It was during this moment, when I finally came to terms with my son’s diagnosis, and I can say to anyone , that yes, my kid has Autism, and I am one proud momma.-

AU-mazing Mommy Jane