So we finally have an ASD diagnosis

5 replies

Tanukisan · 02/10/2014 19:54

At just shy of four years old, my beautiful son has finally been diagnosed with an ASD.

I first bought a book called "Could it be Autism?" when he was 13 months old. I have known at a visceral level since he was a tiny baby. He needs this and I'm relieved the professionals finally agree.

I'm also devastated, beyond gutted that my baby has this incurable, lifelong condition. I have flashes of feeling immensely sorry for myself, and for him. But he's happy. And deeply loved. Such mixed feelings.

OP posts:

Kleinzeit · 02/10/2014 19:59

amymouse · 02/10/2014 20:19

We also got our diagnosis of ASD today (few weeks after 4th birthday!) for DD. I know what you mean about that mix of emotions. On one hand I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders that I don't have to be "convincing" people to believe me and on the other, it is slowly sinking in that this is for the long haul. As you say, he is happy and loved. Two of the most important things in the world. Be kind to yourself; you're allowed to feel a bit rubbish on his behalf.

PolterGoose · 02/10/2014 21:12

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

Original poster

Tanukisan · 02/10/2014 21:33

Thanks all. And amy, for you too. Not sure about you, but even though I was wanting and expecting it, I still felt deeply saddened.

OP posts:

SystemId · 02/10/2014 21:35

My DS was just shy of four too. It took a long time for us as well. I also knew deep down.

It was the lead up to and the year after that were the worst bits. Gradually as support got put in place life became a lot easier.
(He's actually doing well now. Something I never foresaw me saying!)

I'm posting because I wrote a similar post to you back then and someone wrote a message a bit like this one to me which made me feel that maybe one day it would not feel so bleak although it did not feel like at the time (I was totally devestated)

If I could go back and give myself some advice it would be to really really look after myself and spend some time with parents who have been through similar - it really does make a difference. Took me about a year to be ready to do this though but instantly helped.

The diagnosis lets him access the help he needs. He is still the same child - if that makes sense.

Flip