An Unsung Hero Whispers ‘I Am Proud of You’
What is an unsung hero to you?
Someone who quietly reaches out with a rescuing hand in time or need?
Someone who gives you perspective before you have the chance to find it?
When we started to have meetings with our son’s Montessori School about how our son wasn’t fitting into the school program, I began to feel something I was unfamiliar with. A feeling that sat and still sits quietly in the background. That feeling that things were on the horizon, as I felt a shift of worry from within.
I knew I was trying my best to figure out how I could help my son.
I wasn’t sure if I wanted to walk into an evaluation and walk out with a label forever.
I understand now, this was fear, misunderstanding, and a mother’s worry wrapped into one.
We began to get on wait-list for an autism evaluation and he received services through early intervention. Our son was just a tiny toddler and we didn’t know what we were looking for.
We knew our son Nixon was special in so many ways. He could draw you in even as a tiny boy.
I would leave the school meetings and discuss these fears with my co-workers. We shared a small office space which allowed us all to connect in a way others might not. I remember voicing my concerns and looking for answers.
A co-worker of mine had walked a similar path with her son, she discussed her feelings as they went through the process years before and I listened with open ears. It was the first time in our process that I felt someone could truly understand how I was feeling.
She provided resources I couldn’t find on the internet, or in discussions with providers, or in the quiet of the night as I wondered what was coming next.
I heard her power as a mother as she spoke about standing your ground and seeing your child for all that they are. We hadn’t been working together long but I felt instantly connected to her, drawn in to the comfort of our conversations.
She kindly told me if I needed someone to go to an appointment with me she would come.
I never took her up on her offer but the gesture made a lasting impact on me.
As I changed positions and we got our son’s autism diagnosis, she followed my writing and commented on my interviews with other parents.
When I decided to write about our journey she sent this message to me:”Tabitha!! Beautifully written! You did an amazing job outlining the crazy process that we all have to go through. I am so happy that you were able to get to where you are now, with Nixon. It’s such a frightening road to start down. However, it gets somewhat “easier” with time and experience. Welcome to our “group”! Autism Mom’s are not to be messed with! You are a Rockstar, Tabitha! I am so proud of you! Nixon is so lucky that you are his Mommy! I’m always here for you.”
Those few words I float back to often a beautiful, kind, amazing woman who welcomed me into this special club with open arms. She knew what my heart was screaming from the inside as we walked this path for the first time. She extended a hand filled with kindness, warmth, and confidence that we would make it through.
An unsung hero not looking for praise but quietly whispering “I am proud of you.”
In loving memory of my unsung hero.
Written by, Tabitha Cabrera
Tabitha Cabrera, lives in Arizona with her husband, and two beautiful children. She works as an Attorney and enjoys spending her time in a public service role. The family loves nature and ventures outdoors as much possible. Come check out her little nature babies. She writes about their autism journey at peaceofautism.com, also on Facebook and Instagram.
Interested in writing for Finding Cooper’s Voice? LEARN MORE
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.
