Mixed emotions as disabled dc turns 18.

[BitterSweetBirthday]

He greeted me excitedly this morning with "it's my birthday, I'm an adult".
We are now watching pepper pig while waiting for his college transport to arrive, not your typical 18 year old viewing!
He is an adult now but will never live independently, drive, go out alone.......I'm sad 😥

I am so sorry, that must be really hard. You are allowed to be sad about it. Hope you have a nice day celebrating with him when he’s back.

Of course you are allowed to be sad, there was a life you imagined for your child that he won’t have. You sound like a lovely Mum. Happy Birthday to him - I hope his day and yours is more happy than sad.

A bitter sweet morning for you op, a happy birthday to your boy. 🎂🥳
He sounds like he's had a lovely birthday morning. Plans for a cake and candles later?

Happy Birthday to your son. I hope he has a wonderful day.

I hear you about all milestones being edged with grief. I have a daughter who is 16 and has learning disabilities - she will never live independently (fingers crossed independently for us some day).

be really kind to yourself and let the grief do its thing, I bet you have a wonderful relationship with your son.

Congratulations OP for bringing up what sounds like a lovely and happy 18y old boy. At college and excited about his birthday. He has extra challenges, as do you, but you have been there for him every step of the way. And will continue to do so. Today is a day to give yourself a big pat on the back and say well done to yourself!

DD1 is almost 20 and I still get it @BitterSweetBirthday . I said to her yesterday that 'the adults need to notice that you're too tired.' and she said "the older adults." She, too, will never do those things and she can't even cope with college.

Happy birthday to your DS. I hope you enjoy celebrating it in his style.

Oh, OP. It’s entirely understandable. Be kind to yourself, and hope you both enjoy the day.

Thankyou.....we will definitely be celebrating in his style later!!!
I'm about to decorate his cake😁

Time to shake of the sadness and focus on how far my amazing young man has come. He brings so much fun and joy to our lives.

Update
He has had a wonderful day! (As have I)
Pizza party with his special needs college class.
Birthday cake, cards and pressies with family after college and out for fish and chips (his favorite)

Sounds a wonderful day! 🥰

Happy Birthday to him! How lovely he is so excited on his Birthday. It sounds like you’ve done a wonderful job for 18 years! Be proud of yourself.

Love this thread OP, hugs to you all. Wishing you both a joyful time of things ❤️.