Walking the Path: A Mother’s Advocacy

As a mother of three, with my youngest child on the autism spectrum, my world was reshaped in ways I never anticipated. Raising a child with autism brought challenges I wasn’t prepared for, but it also revealed a purpose I never knew I had. Like so many parents navigating the world of neurodiversity, my child’s diagnosis pushed me to grow, adapt, and become the advocate my child needed. That journey transformed me — not just as a mother, but as a professional, a helper, and a human.

The truth is, I’ve always had a heart for people. Even as a little girl, I was the one who made sure no one felt left out. I talked to everyone, made friends easily, and wanted to help where I could. That natural empathy only deepened as life placed me in roles I never imagined, the biggest of which was becoming a solo caregiver to a child with autism.

When you’re raising a neurodivergent child, every day can bring surprises. Some are joyful, like hearing a new word, seeing a smile, or making eye contact. Others are exhausting — public meltdowns, sleepless nights, therapies, IEP meetings with the school, and the constant worry about the future. But despite the chaos, or maybe because of it, I found strength I didn’t know I had. I wasn’t just raising my son; I was learning from him. He taught me patience, resilience, and how to truly celebrate small victories.

It didn’t take long before I realized I wanted to do more, not just for my child, but for other children like him and for the families walking a path similar to mine. That’s when I decided to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), working professionally with children on the autism spectrum who experience big emotions, face big challenges, and need even bigger support.

Stepping into this field felt like the most natural thing in the world. The training made me realize I had already been practicing so many of these techniques in my daily life — instinctively responding to my son’s needs in a way that echoed evidence-based strategies. My personal experience became a professional foundation, and I get to use that foundation every day to make a real difference.

As an RBT, I provide in-home Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to children on the autism spectrum. I support the child, but I also support the family because I know firsthand how isolating this journey can feel. I know what it’s like to sit alone at night Googling therapies. I know what it’s like to cry in the bathroom after a hard day. I know the guilt, the fear, and the overwhelming love that comes with parenting a child who doesn’t fit into society’s mold.

And that’s why this work is more than a paycheck. It’s a mission. It’s deeply personal. It’s healing — for me, and for those I work with. Every time I help a child find their voice or support a parent through a tough moment, I’m reminded why I do this. It’s not just about behavior plans or data collection. It’s about compassion, trust, and being the person I once desperately needed.

I love what I do. I love advocating for children who can’t yet advocate for themselves. I love teaching, guiding, and celebrating every single milestone, no matter how small. I love connecting with families, reminding them they’re not alone, and giving them hope on days when it feels like too much.

Outside of my professional life, I cherish spending quality time with my children, family, and friends. Whether we’re embarking on new adventures, enjoying the great outdoors, or getting creative with arts and crafts, these moments bring me the most joy. Our dog, Dolly, is always along for the fun, adding extra love and laughter to everything we do.

If you’re walking this road — whether you’re a parent, a professional, or someone just trying to understand — know that I see you. I get it. And I’m here. Whether you need support, encouragement, resources, or just someone who understands what it feels like to hold both exhaustion and joy in the same breath — I’m cheering you on.

Here’s to the power of growth, the strength of love, and the magic of making a difference — one child, one family, one moment at a time.

Autism changed my life. But it also gave me direction. It showed me who I’m meant to be. And for that, I’m grateful — every single day.