An Update…
If we know anything as Autism moms, it’s that some things call for a complete pause of all regular activity. At any moment, things can go south, and we have to be flexible enough to pivot on a dime. As individuals and as an organization, that skill has been put to the test in the past couple of months. The support and patience of our friends and supporters has been extraordinary, and this month, we’d like to take a moment to thank you all and provide an update.
A True Home, Not a Mini-Facility
Not all environments are experienced the same, and for profoundly autistic adults, that difference shapes everything. What looks supportive on the surface can feel overwhelming from within. A true home does more than provide care; it creates the conditions for safety, dignity, participation, and growth.
What Does “True Choice” Actually Mean?
Families of profoundly autistic adults are often told they have options. But options are not the same as true choice. For families navigating residential decisions, true choice matters, because timing, fit, and dignity determine whether a life expands or contracts.
He’s Happy — and He Could Be Doing So Much More
Zach wants to be involved. He likes to help. He’s curious when I’m cooking. He enjoys pouring, stirring, being part of what’s happening. But doing those things slowly — the way he needs — takes an abundance of time we simply don’t always have.
Necessary Determination
My son smiles again, and my love for him and my gratitude for this moment are almost painful.
Forever Child
Two weeks ago, I dropped my youngest child off for his freshman year in college.
That seems like an unremarkable statement, as thousands of other parents did the same exhilarating and heart-wrenching thing as well.
Autism Speaks Advocacy 2025 Forum
Last Sunday I said goodbye to my family, excited and hopeful to return to my second home of Washington, DC, to participate in the Autism Speaks Advocacy 2025 Forum.
For a mom of two adult children on the spectrum, and a husband with early on-set Alzheimers, it was a life-changing three days.
Impossible Choice
We are in crisis.
What does that mean?
It’s something I often hear people say and see posted in Autism groups. I don’t know how else to describe our life these days. I guess it’s when you reach the point that you know that the way things are is utterly unsustainable. We all have days when we think we can’t do this anymore, but then we wake up, it’s a new day, and we keep going.
Representation Matters
In December, my 23-year-old son with Profound Autism, had been home, suspended from his day program, for over a month. I want to say I’m an “everything happens for a reason” person, but truthfully, that wisdom only tends to arrive in hindsight.
Road Trip!
This summer I had the road trip of a lifetime.
For four glorious, childless, caretaking-free days, I had the opportunity to hit the road to Whitehouse, Ohio with two of my fabulous cohorts in crime from HomeLife 21.