Unfolding a Step-by-Step Pathway of our Journey.

With no realisation to the impact this step we were taking would have in our lives; and the real journey we were about to embark on!

There are so many stories to be told!

This is just one in a long line, all unique and original!

Follow the journey as we unravel one family’s personal Autism experience.

 Here is our story in journal entries!

-unfolding a step-by-step pathway of our journey;

-the way we see it and live it!

The history that brought us here is a story unlike many others……………….

Grandparents raising their grandchild; I had believed this was an uncommon thing, although as time went on realising how wrong I was!!

Telling our story, the journey of a normal family and how unforeseen circumstances and the diagnosis of Aspergers/ Autism can change everything that you expect to be.

Knowing so many wouldn't or couldn't understand the commitment we had made, a lifetime commitment for that precious little innocent, although when looking into the eyes of a child needing to be loved, no-one should walk away, no matter how it will change your journey’s plans, you step up and take over regardless; and that’s what we did.

Without pausing to take a breath, we committed to begin the steps that would lead us on a journey unlike anything anyone would imagine, step-by-step learning firsthand how the pathway to our unique lifestyle could enlighten us with the joys this child would bring, and shock us to the ignorance of others that don’t understand or want to accept.

There is no easy way of saying to any parent that it won’t get any easier, when dealing with the ongoing issues and certain aspects we face regarding our child’s diagnosis, we want the best for our children and it can be devastating to realise that this may never happen, not in the way we perceived it to be.

Although there are things that can be put into place to ease the burden and hopefully gain the best possible outcome, we still must face the daily issues and uncertainty that comes with the related issues.

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I am a Wife, a Mum, a Nan, and now a Special-Needs Carer. So! How did this come about? 

Married to a wonderful man, having 3 beautiful children, all with different outlooks on life; living in a loving, nurturing environment; guiding them to become strong and independent, with the knowledge that they all matter.

Sometimes it was hard; no-one is perfect, we did the best we could to help make available all the choices and opportunities.

One of our children at the age of 7 was diagnosed with ADHD, although this caused many hurdles to overcome, we worked hard to assist him to become the strong man he is today. 

We were proud to watch our children take each new step in their lives.

The excitement of becoming grandparents, spending time with our beautiful grandchildren, all with different personalities, helping and spoiling them, sharing many important milestones, comparing the stories with our own children’s stages, pleased they were all progressing well.

Believing we were at the point of planning our ‘breakaway’ and ‘timeout moments’, ready to do what we wanted, not having any worries.

We were about to learn this plan wasn't happening anytime soon!

Unfortunately no-one can prevent some situations, broken relationships, loss of employment, health issues, all we can do is be there for them.

With one grandchild, A.J. we had believed to be a reasonably content baby, progressing well with no concerns; suddenly we became aware of worrying issues he was facing.

How were we to know that by the time he was 2.5yrs old, his world and ours would change and we would all be placed in the turmoil of uncharted territory. 

After losing any form of contact with our little man for an extended period, due to his parent’s separation. This small innocent child had to endure a time without support and love; facing the reality of a parent’s neglect, with his mother choosing to undertake a lifestyle beyond many people’s belief. 

How can any parent not look into the eyes of their precious child without wanting to instantly nurture, protect, and educate?

Never knowing at the time what his future would hold.

Thrown in the deep end without a moment to breathe or fully acknowledge the implications of our decision.

We would never have hesitated, never refused;

We did what had to be done; we did it for love! 

Given the option to experience and enjoy every aspect and milestone with a precious child; more-so when that child may never have been given the chance to have what most people expect as a ‘normal life’. What a beautiful gift we were given.

To others, did we do what they perceive as right, correct or normal? 

 What is ‘Normal’ anyway?

So here is where our real journey begins