07/29/2025
This is how I feel about all of the wonderful families I meet, and I hope they all know they do not have to explain a thing to me… I get it!!!
Soon after Jude’s diagnosis, I met another couple whose son is autistic, and a few years older than Jude.
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It felt amazing to talk to people who just got it. Who had been through similar experiences, similar worries, and just understood everything I said. They became great friends.
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Over the years, and especially since starting this page, there’s been many people who have come into my life who just ‘get it.’
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Who you don’t have to explain to about why you can’t make it to the birthday party.
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Why your child is barefoot in the playground, flicking sand everywhere.
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Why they’re wearing ear defenders.
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How tiring it is having to fight so hard for the support your child needs and deserves.
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Why the smallest of achievements, of steps forward, can make your year.
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Why the amount of screen time your child has is so low down in your priorities.
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Why you cancel plans at the last minute.
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Why you forget to return their messages.
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Why you have to stick to routines.
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Who know how to set up their house to make it easier for you and your child to visit.
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Who view you and your child with no judgment.
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Who understand what a meltdown is and know it’s not your child’s fault.
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Who just know that some days are really tough, and ask what they can do
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Who know that the thought of the future can be scary and overwhelming, when you used to find it so exciting.
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I can’t stress this enough, you NEED these people in your life, even if it’s just one person. They might live close by and you can spend time with them in person. Someone you can speak to on the phone or by zoom. Or even that you can just text, or message on social media.
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I have that with a few parents from school. But mainly I have it through people I speak to on here. Other bloggers, friends I’ve made over the years, people I’ve got to know by message or zoom.
In the last couple of years I’ve been fortunate to meet many of you in person, at events, or in our SAA Clothing shop. It’s amazing how easily the conversations flow, and how instantly connected I feel.
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However you connect, finding your community, having others who ‘get it’ will make such a difference to your life. You don’t have to do it alone ❤️
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If you’ve met someone along the way who you’re grateful for, tag them in the comments ❤️
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