PERSONAL NARRATIVE
TOP SECRETS REVEALED:
27 Things Autism Parents
Never Tell You
By Jenny HERMAN
Years ago I was in the throes of researching Asperger’s syndrome and trying to
determine how to help my son. Now I encourage moms in the same situation.
T
hrough my own experience and listening to
the stories of others, I have discovered 27 secrets that many autism parents don’t share.
May you find some comfort knowing you are
not the only parent experiencing the following:
4. “I can’t spend money on things you do.” I
don’t have much money left over for fun extras
like dinner out with friends, a pedicure, or a
shopping spree. My money is tied up with
supplements, treatments, special dietary
needs, therapy items, etc.
1. “I’m sorry I don’t have more to talk about besides my child.” I’m spending hours researching
possible therapies and treatment. I don’t mean
to bore you by talking about it all the time.
That’s just my world right now.
5. “I want to get together with friends, but I
can’t.” This could be due to lack of funds (see
#4), lack of time, lack of energy, or simply lack
of a caregiver. I have a very difficult time finding a babysitter for my child.
2. “I don’t want to research any more therapies or
treatments.” I’m content with what I’m doing.
Please don’t be offended if I’m not as excited
as you are to hear about new treatments. I may
also be just plain tired of research and need a
break.
6. “I’m not whom I used to be.” Parenting a special needs child changes your life. There are
pros and cons to this. Things I once loved are
intolerable for my child. I do not have time
for old hobbies. My priorities and goals have
changed. I’ve become bolder and braver as I’ve
learned to advocate for my child.
3. “I don’t have much to say.” I want to hang out
with you, but I’m too tired to think of anything
to say, or I don’t want to bore you (see #1).
7. “I’m lonely.” Autism parenting can be lonely. I have an abu ndance of appointments. My
Parenting a special needs child changes your life. There are pros
and cons to this. Things I once loved are intolerable
for my child. I do not have time for old hobbies.
46 | Autism Parenting Magazine | Issue 44