ASD Message of Hope -
By Monique Cain Everyone has an idea of what life will be like once you become a parent. Unfortunately, things don’t always go according to plan. Sometimes, life throws you a massive curve ball and the life you imagined veers off in new directions that are completely out of your control. That’s what happened to my husband and I when both of our children, Madi and Thomas, were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In light of this diagnosis, to say that the last seven years of our lives have been an emotional rollercoaster would be an understatement. Since our journey began, I have spoken frequently at seminars on autism. I have spent countless hours talking to parents whose children are on the spectrum. And I live every day with two autistic children, experiencing all the challenges and joy that brings. Whatever your situation with autism, I urge you to “Never give up!” 34
Peninsula Kids – Winter 2019
My family and I have been on our unique autism journey, living and learning together and my two children have taught me the true definition of unconditional love.
Through them I have learnt: New meanings and deeper levels of patience Keep trying, no matter what happens and never give up Appreciate all the little things in life and to recognize what is most important to us. Be kind, caring, compassionate, understanding and open to other people, things and ideas Withhold judgement - we cannot see inside another person’s heart and mind.