Do You See What I See?

My son with disabilities is 20 years old. I can honestly say for those 20 years, we have had every possible meltdown known to humanity thanks to autism. We have had meltdowns in every public place in our hometown. All while trying to seem “normal.” 

I have always been a mom on the go. I want my children to experience everything. So, I don’t shy away from taking them to experience different outings. Over the years, this has often turned into a nightmare, ending with my son getting upset and throwing a tantrum at every event. 

What I never could imagine was that this was going to get better! No one told me that this could change for the better and that I needed to keep on having hope and believing. That the therapy sessions and all the attempts of going out in public to desensitize him could eventually help! 

I now call it our awakening! It is as if my son has been in a very long coma or is just waking up after a very long nap. Like a 19-year-long nap! The things I had taken him to before that seemed like torture to him are now amazing to him. 

He has loved going to air shows. We recently took him to a hot air balloon festival. He thought it was the greatest thing ever. He has decided he loves live music and eating some of the fun carnival-type food like funnel cakes and turkey legs. 

He is also becoming so excited to celebrate holidays. Although I usually dread putting up all the decorations, this year, I am extra excited because he is excited to help me. 

This awakening has not only been good for my son but also for the rest of our family. It is making us stop and appreciate all the things we have taken for granted. The colors seem brighter, the music seems louder and most importantly, my son seems happier and absorbing every moment!

Find other tips and information that you might find helpful for navigating daily life and public outings.