Welcome to my blog—a space where I’m sharing our family’s journey with autism, one step at a time. I’m Danielle, mom to my incredible six-year-old daughter, Selena, and her younger sister and baby brother. I’m also an advocate for understanding and celebrating kids like Selena. Whether you’re a parent on a similar path or here to learn about autism, I’m so glad you’re with me.
This first post is about how our journey began, the lessons we’re learning, and why I’m starting this blog to connect with you. Selena was diagnosed with level 3 autism on her second birthday, a day that’s etched in my heart. Hearing “autism spectrum disorder” and “non-verbal” felt overwhelming for my tiny girl with bright eyes and a curious spirit. Questions swirled: How will we communicate? What does her future hold? Fear crept in, but love was stronger—a fierce promise to help Selena shine her way. That day wasn’t an ending; it was the start of a journey we’re navigating with hope.
The early years were intense. We dove into therapies—speech, occupational, behavioral—to connect with Selena’s world. As a non-verbal child, she speaks through gestures, a joyful hand-flap at her favorite song, or a careful stack of blocks in perfect rows. These aren’t just habits; they’re Selena’s beautiful way of sharing herself. But explaining her world to her siblings has been its own challenge. Her younger sister, old enough to notice differences, asks why Selena doesn’t talk or play the same way. Her baby brother, still so little, giggles at Selena’s movements but doesn’t yet understand. Finding words to help them see Selena’s autism as part of who she is—not a flaw—takes patience.
We talk about how Selena’s brain works differently, like a unique song we’re all learning to dance to. It’s tough, especially when their questions catch me off guard, but it’s teaching us all about love and acceptance. Selena’s autism has reshaped how I see progress. I once dreamed of “typical” milestones—first words, playground chatter. But her milestones are uniquely hers. The day she shared a quiet moment of eye contact, my heart soared. When she used a picture board to ask for juice, it felt like a conversation. These victories fuel us, showing Selena is growing and teaching us daily. Why this blog? Because Selena’s story—and our family’s—deserves to be told. Raising a special needs child can feel isolating, like you’re surrounded by love but craving others who understand. I want to raise awareness about autism, especially for kids like Selena who need extra support. I want to show that non-verbal doesn’t mean silent, that level 3 autism doesn’t dim her spirit. I also want a community where we share, learn, and lift each other up.
Here, you’ll find our stories—Selena’s triumphs, our tough days, and joyful surprises. I’ll share what we’re learning about therapies, handling sensory challenges, and the magic of Selena’s passions (she could watch spinning wheels for hours!). I’m here to listen, too—to your stories, questions, or wins. This blog is for all of us. As I write, Selena’s nearby, lost in her favorite activity, reminding me why this matters. Autism is a big part of our story, but not the whole one. It’s teaching us patience, resilience, and deeper love—through Selena’s smile and her siblings’ growing understanding. Thank you for joining us. Here’s to cherishing every step and building a space where no one feels alone.
With love and gratitude,
Danielle
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