Beautiful Communication on Mother’s Day
My son Cooper is 14 years old. He was diagnosed with severe nonverbal autism at age 3.
I don’t always know what he knows. If you live outside this autism world, I know that sounds bizarre. But see, he can’t always tell me. And if I don’t ask, he doesn’t show me.
Yesterday, during some anxious moments, we planned his next birthday party.
Planning helps him gain control. Planning helps him feel better.
December 6th. That’s the day he turns 15.
We have some time.
We picked a trip to the waterpark.
His favorite place.
He typed out words one by one.
Waterpark
Swim
Family
Party
Hotel
Sleep
Friends
Presents
He planned the whole thing.
Some where during the conversation I told him he would be 15 years old.
I pretended to cry and said…my baby! 15! So old!
He didn’t acknowledge that part. Age is confusing. I don’t know if he really understood.
And I felt that familiar sting in my heart. Fifteen.
He should know. He should be close to driving. He should be talking about girls and growing up.
And then back to reality.
Balloons
Hats
Decorations
And then this morning, as I watched the news and drank my coffee, he turned his phone to me…
He pointed to the screen.
It read 15.
I gasped. And said…
‘Cooper is going to be 15 on December 6.’
He clapped. And cheered. And smiled.
He understands.
It’s not what I pictured, this autism life. But goodness it’s taught me to be thankful. And it’s humbled me a time or two as well.
Communication is such a gift. And so is this boy.
I’ve been following you on and off since my daughter was born. Your journey brings me so much happiness. As a mother of a child with autism, you inspire me. Wishing you both many blessings and a Happy Mother’s Day! 💐💐💐
I only just discovered your blog and your books, but I'm very much looking forward to digging into both! I'm only beginning my own journey with my autistic five year old son, but mercy I'm glad there are people like you who are sharing their experiences. A very happy belated Mother's Day!