Inner Circle
In the month of April we celebrate World Autism Awareness across the globe. We light up our homes and yards with blue, as we stand in solidarity our love for a family member with Autism. Autism does not come with a manual on how to effectively raise a child with special needs. As we come together to honor this special month I would like to highlight a program that still impacts so many today.
September 9, 2011 I enrolled into a program called PAM which stands for PARENTS, ADVOCATES, AND MENTORS created by founder Areva Martin. This program teaches families how to advocate for their children and navigate the special education system. I remember being a mother with an 11 and 6 year old on the spectrum, so scared of what others would say or do to my children. Like most parents you live in constant fear that people will not be receptive to understanding Autism.
For a parent with a child newly diagnosed they can go through Elisabeth Kübler-Ross stages of grief. The stages of grief consist of denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. I remember walking into this building filled with women of every color and nationality. The facilitator ask everyone to stand up say their name and give the names of your children and diagnosis.
I remember a young mother standing up reciting her name and saying she has two sons with Autism. She literally burst out into tears, there was not a dry eye in the house. Each mother, aunt, foster parent, grandmother stood and spoke out until every box of Kleenex was empty.
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At the very last table, the last seat I stood up for the first time just like participants do in AA meetings I said my name and I have two sons with Autism. To say it aloud in front of my peers and not be judged, hear sarcastic antics, and suggestions was a sign of relief.
I felt like I could breathe for the first time. All the emotions, worry and anxiety left my body as every mom stood up to hug each other. I completed the program November 19, I walked into that building alone and afraid for my children. Autism seemed like such a big giant I felt it hovered over my shoulders but when I left the program I gained a sisterhood and second family. A community of friends and love ones that would always celebrate small and big achievements with my children and cry with me when days seem unbearable.
There is a quote that states friends are the love ones we choose for ourselves. I along with my children have gained a second family, support system and lifetime of wonderful friendships. As we celebrate Autism Awareness worldwide I celebrate the fathers, mothers and everyone who has a child or love one on the spectrum because in the end we are all family .
Reference :
Special Needs Network
Special Needs Network, Inc. | Together (snnla.org)
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