The Future is His Own

When I used to Google autism, so many supposed ‘facts’ came up.

Children with autism don’t…

Show love.

Smile.

Laugh.

Have emotion.

Children with autism are…

Withdrawn.

In their own world.

Removed.

Unfriendly.

I remember reading those words on my phone. Typically late at night. In private. Free from judgement from others.

Sometimes I’d even be in bed with my sweet boy. He was three. And my body would be snuggling his.

I’d smell his hair and listen to him breathe and read about his future.

And I’d pray. Pray those predictions were wrong.

If I could change one thing about the diagnosis process it would be to remove those negative supposed ‘truths.’

They are crushing to a parent. And while some may be true, because every person’s autism is unique, they are detrimental to read. Especially in the beginning.

Look at this kid. Playing miracle league baseball with his friend Lauren.

Sure is sad he doesn’t have any personality. (Insert sarcasm!)

Cooper is silly and animated.

He adores giving high fives to the other players as they run the bases.

He must give a chest bump after every at-bat.

And it’s not true base running unless you jump on the base with both feet and scream with joy when you cross it.

He has challenges of course. Who doesn’t?

And he does adore his own world. That’s a fact.

But he sure brings a lot of color to ours too. Without a doubt.

The diagnosis was severe nonverbal autism.

And the future is his own.

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.