Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Why is it called "The New Face of Autism"?


Today, I thought I would explain what “The New Face of Autism” means to me.  Seems to be the most popular question I am receiving from family and close friends.

Let me ask you, when you look at this face, do you see a disability?  Do you see a child who has communication difficulties?  Do you see someone who looks unhappy?  OR, do you look at her and think to yourself how precious she is and you are “wow”ed by her smile?  See, if the world didn’t know Alyssa has Autism, we could all have this great hope; she could be or do anything she wanted, without limitations.  I am challenging everyone to believe this is the future for her anyhow.

When I read articles about children with Autism, what I have seen so much of, is this display of children who have “recovered” or been “cured” from some type of therapy, special diet and/or medication.  Alyssa does therapy, special diet and medications/supplements.  The truth is this; she is much, much healthier, than she has ever been and she has made progress over the years, but she’s not “cured”.  I want to see the article and picture of the child who hasn’t recovered or been cured, but who’s family believes in her regardless.  I want to read the book that can give us hope and make us feel “ok”, even if the child in the story isn’t cured, has special needs, and still has Autism.

I joined a group at one point.  I was overwhelmed by the anger, frustration and hopelessness shared by so many families.  I completely understand; I do!!  However, I believe, we absolutely have to get out of that thinking.  What if our kids caught on to all of those feelings and didn’t think we believed in them?  For me, I want to be a part of the success, the positive, the hope, and even the difficulty.

You have to know, I feel we have some of the BEST therapists, we have an AMAZING doctor and a GREAT group of people in her school working so hard to make a difference for Alyssa.  We are incredibly fortunate.  What I admire so much in all of these people, they believe in her.  They take on the challenge and don’t put limitations to the outcome or her ability.  They treat her with respect and kindness.

What I see is this amazing beauty, happiness, and love from Alyssa!  When you look at a picture of a child with a disability, I think it is almost natural in our society to feel sorry for them.  When you look at this face, I want you to have hope!  WE believe in her and I want you to be able to, as well.  I would like to think she will be on the cover of a magazine someday, representing that differences can be beautiful.  And, I would love to see Alyssa give strength to others, who may have a dream.

Bottom line, I would like to think, this face, this amazing young girl, will give us all a new perspective, a new attitude!

Have a great day!

11 comments:

  1. Awesome Angie I love your spirit. I can see why Alyssa is doing so well. Keep up the good work for her and all you touch

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  2. Wow, I'm so proud of you Angie! I believe your heart is in the exact same place as mine when it comes to our autistic children. I have enormously high hopes for Saxton, regardless of 'recovery'. Blessings to you!

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  3. PS: We're having another boy in May!

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  4. Lois and India, Thank you very much for your feedback. Looking forward to a successful journey. Hoping you will follow. :) Best wishes, Angie

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  5. Congratulations India!!! I am very excited for you and your family. Angie

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  6. I just love ya so much Angie, and feel very blessed to be apart of your BEAUTIFUL little girls journey!! HUGS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!

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  7. This is beautiful. I do not want to in any way downplay how difficult it must be at times, but it is sites like this, and also the very fine work of persons on the autistic spectrum (one of my favorites is "In my language"), that give me hope that people will seek to understand what they cannot "cure" - and learn to speak the language, just as we learn other languages. There may, someday, be a Rosetta Stone.

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  8. In the meantime - kudos to the beautiful Alyssa and to you.

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  9. Kira, Julie... I am speechless. Hard for me to be speechless. ha. I sure appreciate you both and your feedback. Angie

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  10. Now we have a beautiful dream of a magazine ~ This is an opportunity Angie ~ Is there anything out there currently?? You are a beautiful writer and I wonder if you're being nudged here. Pay close attention to this..I think (perhaps) that you're on to something even bigger! XOXOXO

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  11. Jen, you are so sweet... If a nudge comes my way, I think I will be ready for it. Thank you sooo much for your comment. xo Hugs, Angie

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