Motherhood is a rollercoaster of emotions and challenges, but being a mother to a child with autism adds layers of unique complexity and learning. Claudia Valdesin an interview with La Mesa Caliente, shares her journey as a mother of a girl with autism, highlighting the importance of understanding this condition.
“The autistic community got together a long time ago and are asking that they not feel identified with either the puzzle symbol or the color blue,” explains Valdés. “For me as a mother, what autism is is more important. I always knew that my child was going to be special, I tell it in the book I wrote called 'My Astronaut Daughter' so it didn't take me by surprise. I realized from the age of 10 months that there was something to do with her and I started looking before I had the diagnosis.”
Another moving story comes from Melisa Tuya, author of 'Having a Child with Autism', who narrates her experience with realism and optimism. “I have not left behind difficult or harsh facets. I have tried to be sincere and not disguise things. I have tried not to sugarcoat them but neither do I overdo it,” she says.
Yours shares how your son, Jameslost gradually acquired skills between one and a half and two years of age. Recognize the signs that went unnoticed and the difficult denial phase before diagnosis. “Denial is a well-studied process that we all experience when faced with a certain type of news or circumstances,” explains Tuya. “I think that in my case the denial was prior to the diagnosis.”
For Daniel Comindirector of the Daily Autism Foundation, the biggest challenge lies in personal change. “It shouldn't be about curing your child's autism but about yourself,” she says. This mental shift transforms your perception of the world and can be liberating. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in 160 children has autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The prevalence is increasing, but it is not due to a greater risk, but rather to better detection and diagnosis.
Contrary to myths, The WHO confirms that there is no relationship between vaccines and autism. People with autism have diverse intellectual abilities, and psychosocial interventions can improve their quality of life. World Autism Day advocates breaking barriers and promoting cognitive accessibility. The Autism Spain Confederation makes a global call to eliminate obstacles and create an inclusive society for all people.
Being a mother of a child with autism comes with unique challenges, but also offers opportunities for personal growth and connection to a vibrant, supportive community. It is a journey of acceptance, love and commitment to inclusion and diversity.
(With information from EFE)
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