I’m glad I didn’t listen.
When I voiced my concerns to our pediatrician and she told me our son was just “a chubby lazy baby.”
I’m glad I didn’t listen.
When they told me our son would never speak because he didn’t have verbal words by the age of 4.
I’m glad I didn’t listen.
When they said he’ll never be able to attend a public school with his brother.
I’m glad I didn’t listen.
When a doctor told me he was “too happy” to have autism.
I’m glad I didn’t listen.
When the therapist said our son wouldn’t be able to run like the neighborhood kids playing outside.
I’m glad I didn’t listen.
To the numbers, to the comments, to the negativity and doubt.
I’m glad I didn’t listen.
Friends, this is one of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my 10 years in the autism world.
Don’t listen to everything you have been told about your child and what they won’t be able to do in the future.
Even when when it comes from doctors or other professionals.
There is no number or statistic that can define our children.
Every single individual is different and unique in their own way.
They will learn and grow at different times just like their typically developing peers.
Our children are capable of doing amazing things.
It might take longer to get there with extra supports in place.
And it might look a little bit different.
But they CAN accomplish different milestones and gain new skills.
They can make progress over the years and are able to live happy and successful lives.
It’s inspiring to watch their determination and see them persevere through obstacles that stand in their way.
Our son would NOT be where he is today if we listened to all of the negative things that were said to us over the years.
Instead, we listened to our hearts.
We promised we would never give up.
We listened to our faith and asked for His guidance.
We BELIEVED.
We believe in hope.
We believe in our son.
We believe that he is a life long learner and will continue to reach for the stars.
Our sweet Bubba is a shining light and makes this world a better place.
We are so incredibly proud to be his parents.
And I’m glad we didn’t listen.
