As a parent of a child with autism, it is extremely challenging sometimes. There are times when I think I got this, and then there are times I feel like I am new to all of this. I have learned so much about autism through my daughter's eyes, which I am grateful for.
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When Katie was born, she was diagnosed with a chromosome abnormality. She started therapy at Children's Specialized Hospital at six months old due to challenges suspected of her chromosome abnormality. However, when Katie was 7 years old, her therapist and mom started seeing different behaviors that did not align with the deletion.
It was recommended that she see a neurodevelopmental pediatrician. After an evaluation, it was revealed that she had Autism Spectrum Disorder. "After her new diagnosis, Katie continued occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy at Children's Specialized Hospital while adding neurodevelopmental services," stated Katie's mom, Jessica. "As she grew, we started seeing a psychiatrist due to challenging behaviors.".jpg)
"As a parent of a child with autism, it is extremely challenging sometimes. There are times when I think I got this, and then there are times I feel like I am new to all of this. I have learned so much about autism through my daughter's eyes, which I am grateful for. I have learned to breathe through the obstacles and realize we will be okay," added Jessica.
"Autism is a world that is so misunderstood at times. Even though there is so much information about autism, there is still so much that needs to be understood. The emotional, social, behavior, sensory, anxiety part of it is so intertwined that it just makes it hard for people to understand your child."
When asked if Jessica has advice for parents who recently found out their child was diagnosed with autism, she stated, "Understand that you will be fine. I realize how overwhelming this diagnosis can be. However, there is support for you. Surround yourself with people who understand your journey. Find your support people. It doesn't have to just be family. Please realize as you are going through obstacles at some point, you will find the answers. Don't forget to appreciate your child for who they were before the diagnosis. Never give up hope. Keep things as simple as possible. We, as parents, tend to complicate things by trying to do everything at once. Learn to say no. Most importantly, make time for yourself. You play a very important role in this journey and you need to take care of yourself."
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Now 21 years old, Katie is transitioning into a day program three times a week. When she's not in the program, she volunteers, swims, and keeps busy with her companion. Katie attends a basketball clinic at RWJBarnabas Field of Dreams in Toms River, swims for Special Olympics, takes swimming lessons at their local YMCA, and works at a local restaurant.
For more information, visit Children's Specialized Hospital.