Comments on: THE MYSTERY THAT IS AUTISM & HOW IT RELATES TO ME http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/ Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:05:25 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 By: Diane Smith http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-8176 Diane Smith Fri, 01 Jan 2010 19:10:19 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-8176 Dear Shynea, I am behind in reading and just saw your post about your son being evaluated for autism. I have a 15 year old who is on the autism spectrum. I wanted to tell you not to feel guilty if your son is diagnosed...you haven't done anything that would have caused him to have it. Althought there are many theories as to the cause of autism....parenting is definitely not one of them. The other thing I want to tell you is that although it seems overwhelming right now...kids on the spectrum are able to learn just like kids who don't have autism....but they learn in a different way. Please feel free to contact me if there is anything you need...information is one of the best things you can get! Dear Shynea,
I am behind in reading and just saw your post about your son being evaluated for autism. I have a 15 year old who is on the autism spectrum. I wanted to tell you not to feel guilty if your son is diagnosed…you haven’t done anything that would have caused him to have it. Althought there are many theories as to the cause of autism….parenting is definitely not one of them. The other thing I want to tell you is that although it seems overwhelming right now…kids on the spectrum are able to learn just like kids who don’t have autism….but they learn in a different way. Please feel free to contact me if there is anything you need…information is one of the best things you can get!

]]> By: K.O. http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-7964 K.O. Sat, 19 Dec 2009 17:54:01 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-7964 Oh Shynea...I just wanna wrap my arms around you and give you the biggest hug. I am so late in responding to this. I knew that you had a lot going on lately, but had no idea the magnitude. As mama's, we carry around all of the burdens for our children, questioning everything we did and trying to figure out what we could've done differently. But like all of the other ladies have said, this is not your fault...in any way. You've already been in my prayers and I will keep you in them. You are a very strong woman, so I know that you'll get through this. You have lots of support and we love you! Oh Shynea…I just wanna wrap my arms around you and give you the biggest hug. I am so late in responding to this. I knew that you had a lot going on lately, but had no idea the magnitude. As mama’s, we carry around all of the burdens for our children, questioning everything we did and trying to figure out what we could’ve done differently. But like all of the other ladies have said, this is not your fault…in any way. You’ve already been in my prayers and I will keep you in them. You are a very strong woman, so I know that you’ll get through this. You have lots of support and we love you!

]]> By: Marquita http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-7963 Marquita Sat, 19 Dec 2009 16:48:28 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-7963 I know you blame your elf but you should not. You are a wonderful mother and that is what is takes a Strong Mother to get Autistic Children where they need to be. I Student teach a 3 year old Special needs class and the children in the class have different disorders and Autisum is one of the many. I love the children in this class. I can relate to some of them better than I can to other studetns in my regular education classes. You have nothing to worry about. I have saw so many progressions in one year in every studnt in the class. I have some books that you could read if you want them about Parents and how they have had to deal with the facts of a child with a disorder. I can send them to you. Special Education is what I will certify in when I so finish college,it is a challenge, but the children are worth it. Like so may of that other ladies stated, from the day the starts school be involved in the IEP (Individual Education Plan) and attend all the meetings you can. I know you and your family will make it through this. Just keep the faith. I am always a E mail away!!! ALWAYS!!!!! I know you blame your elf but you should not. You are a wonderful mother and that is what is takes a Strong Mother to get Autistic Children where they need to be. I Student teach a 3 year old Special needs class and the children in the class have different disorders and Autisum is one of the many. I love the children in this class. I can relate to some of them better than I can to other studetns in my regular education classes. You have nothing to worry about. I have saw so many progressions in one year in every studnt in the class. I have some books that you could read if you want them about Parents and how they have had to deal with the facts of a child with a disorder. I can send them to you. Special Education is what I will certify in when I so finish college,it is a challenge, but the children are worth it. Like so may of that other ladies stated, from the day the starts school be involved in the IEP (Individual Education Plan) and attend all the meetings you can. I know you and your family will make it through this. Just keep the faith. I am always a E mail away!!! ALWAYS!!!!!

]]> By: Valerie http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-7900 Valerie Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:50:38 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-7900 Just wanted to tell you that I love your blog... I also have a son who was labeled autistic at 3. It has been a stressful journey but now I see the blessing in it. My advice is early intervention. He can really thrive in the right setting. Speech therapy a good program, get him on all of the waiting lists early. Take care. Valerie Just wanted to tell you that I love your blog… I also have a son who was labeled autistic at 3. It has been a stressful journey but now I see the blessing in it.

My advice is early intervention. He can really thrive in the right setting. Speech therapy a good program, get him on all of the waiting lists early.

Take care.
Valerie

]]> By: Shynea http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-7811 Shynea Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:42:25 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-7811 Dear Jennifer, My throat got really tight when I read your comment. My son teaches me something on a daily basis. He truly showed me that I have unconditional love for my children, because there are times that I do struggle with learning how to teach/raise/discipline him. He amazes me constantly and as a mother I know you can relate when your child suffers from something that is beyond your control. Yet we still, secretly, blame ourselves. Thank you SO much for your kind words. Take care, Shynea Dear Jennifer,

My throat got really tight when I read your comment. My son teaches me something on a daily basis. He truly showed me that I have unconditional love for my children, because there are times that I do struggle with learning how to teach/raise/discipline him. He amazes me constantly and as a mother I know you can relate when your child suffers from something that is beyond your control. Yet we still, secretly, blame ourselves.

Thank you SO much for your kind words.

Take care,
Shynea

]]> By: Shynea http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-7810 Shynea Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:40:08 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-7810 Dear Mona, The guilt is over taking me. I haven't be able to function for WEEKS and other areas of my life are suffering. Thank you SO MUCH for your encouraging words. The few friends, such as yourself, that I have made on the internet ALWAYS give me the support that I need and the encouraging words that help me push on through to another day. Take care, Shynea Dear Mona,

The guilt is over taking me. I haven’t be able to function for WEEKS and other areas of my life are suffering. Thank you SO MUCH for your encouraging words. The few friends, such as yourself, that I have made on the internet ALWAYS give me the support that I need and the encouraging words that help me push on through to another day.

Take care,
Shynea

]]> By: Shynea http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-7809 Shynea Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:38:32 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-7809 Dear Kat, You always know how to choke me up. Seriously. I turn inward whenever I am faced with a hard time, decision or obstacle. I have ALWAYS been like that. NEVER leaning on others for support. ALWAYS trying to handle things on my own. After 26 years it's a hard trait to break. I will definitely check out Laura and her blog. Thank you for the link. Take care and much love, Shynea Dear Kat,

You always know how to choke me up. Seriously. I turn inward whenever I am faced with a hard time, decision or obstacle. I have ALWAYS been like that. NEVER leaning on others for support. ALWAYS trying to handle things on my own. After 26 years it’s a hard trait to break.

I will definitely check out Laura and her blog. Thank you for the link.

Take care and much love,
Shynea

]]> By: Stacie http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-7673 Stacie Sat, 12 Dec 2009 21:20:41 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-7673 First of DO NOT blame yourself. Yeah I know that's easier said then done. If your son has autism it is by no means your fault! Been there! One thing to know that your son is young and being young means that there is early intervention. I don't know what State your in but there can be ALOT of resources in your state. Not every state or insurance company covers autism either. Dakota my son was diagnosed with autism at the age of 18 months. However we flagged all the signs at 10 1/2 months. If I can be of any help please let me know. If you just want to vent or ask questions email me. I honestly don't mind :) By the way your son is adorable! First of DO NOT blame yourself. Yeah I know that’s easier said then done. If your son has autism it is by no means your fault! Been there! One thing to know that your son is young and being young means that there is early intervention. I don’t know what State your in but there can be ALOT of resources in your state. Not every state or insurance company covers autism either. Dakota my son was diagnosed with autism at the age of 18 months. However we flagged all the signs at 10 1/2 months. If I can be of any help please let me know. If you just want to vent or ask questions email me. I honestly don’t mind :) By the way your son is adorable!

]]> By: Dacia R. http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-7670 Dacia R. Sat, 12 Dec 2009 20:38:52 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-7670 Also...(I hope I don't overload you) a website for parents of color with children with Autism (In case you need it) is http://www.child-autism-parent-cafe.com/african-americans-and-autism.html Someone earlier mentioned Holly Robinson Peete as a fellow parent; there is also Tisha Campbel-Martin and Toni Braxton, to start. Also…(I hope I don’t overload you)

a website for parents of color with children with Autism (In case you need it) is http://www.child-autism-parent-cafe.com/african-americans-and-autism.html
Someone earlier mentioned Holly Robinson Peete as a fellow parent; there is also Tisha Campbel-Martin and Toni Braxton, to start.

]]> By: Dacia R. http://pennypinchingdiva.com/2009/12/the-mystery-that-is-autism-how-it-relates-to-me/#comment-7668 Dacia R. Sat, 12 Dec 2009 20:07:18 +0000 http://pennypinchingdiva.com/?p=3641#comment-7668 Hi! I have been following your website for a few months (which has been FANTASTIC in helping me and my family), and just read your post on your son Tooty-my heart is with you. My daughter Naudia, who is turning 3 on the 17th of December was diagnosed on Dec. 1st with mild to moderate Autism. Although we suspected in for the past few months, to hear the words just turned our world upside down-but we're gaining our footing again with a different perspective on life. She is a gift, our "sunshine", and just like Tooty, was sent as a blessing and for a reason. We have decided to do all we can to help her in any way we can. Tooty may just be a late bloomer; he may have developmental delays; he may have Autism. But none of these are his true essence, and don't have any reflection on you and his Dad, nor his future. We are new to the Autism game, so I will just share a few brief things that I hope will help if you need it: -our IEP is scheduled for next month -our local Children's Developmental Services Agency did free evaluations and assessments, including audiology services -autism-society.org website has lots of info -your local chapter of the autism society will be there for local resources and support -your local Family Support Network will be a great source of free information, workshops, get togethers, and special fun events for your son, you and his Dad, and his siblings (most are free) -AutismSpeaks.com is sending us a free 100-Day kit for newly diagnosed children and parents, with tons of information, resources, etc. -your pediatrician should refer you to a pediatric neurologist to ensure there were no infant and/or toddler seizures (which are not easily detected as they are in adults), which would cause delays -Actress Jenny McCarthy has a WONDERFUL book called "Louder Than Words: A Mother's Journey in Healing Autism"-a must have -other great books: Facing Autism by Lynn Hamilton, Special Diets for Special People by Lisa Lewis, and Healing the New Childhood Epidemics (Autism, ADHD, Allergies, and Asthma) by Kenneth Bock, M.D. (all books can be found in your local library) If you need any further support, advice, or an understanding ear and shoulder, our family is available. Hugs and Kisses, and let's think of it like this: God must treasure us as individuals and moreso as parents in order to entrust us with his most precious children, knowing that we would love them unconditionally, and honor them for the special and wonderful gifts that they are! You are a gift, and so is your son! You're blessed! Hi!
I have been following your website for a few months (which has been FANTASTIC in helping me and my family), and just read your post on your son Tooty-my heart is with you.
My daughter Naudia, who is turning 3 on the 17th of December was diagnosed on Dec. 1st with mild to moderate Autism. Although we suspected in for the past few months, to hear the words just turned our world upside down-but we’re gaining our footing again with a different perspective on life. She is a gift, our “sunshine”, and just like Tooty, was sent as a blessing and for a reason. We have decided to do all we can to help her in any way we can.
Tooty may just be a late bloomer; he may have developmental delays; he may have Autism. But none of these are his true essence, and don’t have any reflection on you and his Dad, nor his future.
We are new to the Autism game, so I will just share a few brief things that I hope will help if you need it:
-our IEP is scheduled for next month
-our local Children’s Developmental Services Agency did free evaluations and assessments, including audiology services
-autism-society.org website has lots of info
-your local chapter of the autism society will be there for local resources and support
-your local Family Support Network will be a great source of free information, workshops, get togethers, and special fun events for your son, you and his Dad, and his siblings (most are free)
-AutismSpeaks.com is sending us a free 100-Day kit for newly diagnosed children and parents, with tons of information, resources, etc.
-your pediatrician should refer you to a pediatric neurologist to ensure there were no infant and/or toddler seizures (which are not easily detected as they are in adults), which would cause delays
-Actress Jenny McCarthy has a WONDERFUL book called “Louder Than Words: A Mother’s Journey in Healing Autism”-a must have
-other great books: Facing Autism by Lynn Hamilton, Special Diets for Special People by Lisa Lewis, and Healing the New Childhood Epidemics (Autism, ADHD, Allergies, and Asthma) by Kenneth Bock, M.D. (all books can be found in your local library)

If you need any further support, advice, or an understanding ear and shoulder, our family is available. Hugs and Kisses, and let’s think of it like this: God must treasure us as individuals and moreso as parents in order to entrust us with his most precious children, knowing that we would love them unconditionally, and honor them for the special and wonderful gifts that they are! You are a gift, and so is your son! You’re blessed!

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