Support is the key ingredient in facing every life obstacle. Without it, you feel alone, anxious and hopeless. But if there are some positive people surrounding you who continue to smile as life moves forward, much of the weight comes off your shoulders. And this has been what has made our challenge with our autistic son far less challenging!

When you enter the world of autism, you’ll be surprised how much support naturally comes your way (that is if you are open about the diagnosis). Every month you learn about something new. You meet other special needs parents who know more than any doctor. You meet some amazing therapists and teachers who you are eternally grateful for. Each person has an encouraging story to share or a piece of advice.

My heart sank after hearing my son’s diagnosis. But it was very soon after that he was placed in the right classes with the right services and support. That is when I finally felt at ease. I saw the other children. I saw that autism was not the disability I ever thought it was. I saw how much love they received in the classroom. And I almost felt bad for neuro-typical kids who weren’t in special needs classes. It completely changed my outlook.

But more than the professionals, no ones support was as meaningful as those of our family. The unconditional love they show my son means more than anything in the world. It is through their love and their embrace that my son feels the most part of our world. If they were to turn their shoulder and just assume that autistic kids prefer to be alone, my son would not progress nearly as much as he has. They have looked at him with more adoration than their other grandchildren or nieces and nephews. They accept all his quirks and all his charm. And as a parent, nothing makes you feel better than knowing others love your child as much as you do.

Sure there are times family members pass on advice that you are all to familiar with already. There is very rarely something they can inform you of that you have not learned of through the years. And it could be extremely frustrating to listen to them seeming to think they know more than you. But all this means is that they care and that they are there for you. So my advice to the supporting network: spare your advice, and just express your love! It’s more than enough!

I highly suggest you surround yourself with a great team. And remember, the more composed and positive you are, the more so are those around you. You all help each other stay afloat, which in turn helps your child! If you have a bad therapist, ask for another one. If your family isn’t meeting your expectations, sit down and have a talk to them. Or simply hang up on them if they call you with unwarranted advice. Works like a charm each time! But, always remember to use all the help you can get and to always express your gratitude!