I am very fortunate to have both of my children and a supportive husband. My kids have taught me so much about life. I learned a lot about myself through them.

I was in regular classes in school. I was also sent to day camps every day during the summer. All this while struggling with learning and social cues. My struggles were ignored.

I always felt that someday I would find out why I struggled in these areas. Little did I know that having my kids would give me the answers I needed.

I have a daughter, age 20, diagnosed with PDD-NOS [pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified] at 4 and OCD [obsessive-compulsive disorder] at 10. I have a son, age 17, diagnosed with ASD [autism spectrum disorder], dysgraphia, and dyscalculia at age 12. [Dysgraphia is a learning disability that can make writing difficult. Dyscalculia is a learning disability that makes it difficult to understand mathematics.]

It was very natural for me to raise two kids with autism. I say natural because when I saw their struggles, I knew what they needed. The biggest struggle for me was communicating with the staff at their school. I have never learned to advocate for myself, so this was tough at first. Then after doing it for so long, I became a pro. This helped me to become an effective communicator. I had to write emails and make phone calls. I had to come out of myself. While getting support and help for my kids, I was seeing things that weren't done for me. I saw the things I needed at their ages which would've helped me reach my full potential. This has made me sad at times. I am so happy to see my kids happy.

I finally got my diagnosis of autism after all these years. I am so relieved and happy to now know why I struggle from time to time.

I am so glad and proud to be an active member on MyAutismTeam. I enjoy supporting those who are going through what I have gone through.

My Perspective articles discuss autism and the autism spectrum from a specific point of view. We understand that everyone with autism or caring for someone with the condition has a different experience. We aim to share as many of those viewpoints as we can. We’d love to hear from you. Please submit your proposal for editorial consideration to editors@myhealthteams.com. My Perspective articles don’t reflect the opinions of MyHealthTeams staff, medical experts, partners, advertisers, or sponsors.