"Maybe Never" to "Absolutely Yes" 💙

April is Autism Acceptance Month, and I want to take these next few weeks to share more about my story as an "Autism Mama." 💙

When Quincy was first diagnosed, I heard a lot of “he might never…” I already told y'all, that meant nothing to me. I tucked those words away and focused on progress, not predictions.

Now, years later, here are just a few things "they" said he might not do. Yet here we are:

1. Self-advocating & emotional awareness: Quincy speaks up for himself. He understands his needs and isn’t afraid to say how he feels. We’re still working on emotional regulation (teen hormones ain't no joke), but his growth has been incredible. He’s not afraid to say “I need some time to myself” or “that makes me uncomfortable." And that alone is powerful.
2. Independence with school & routines: He’s attended an online school since middle school and manages his schedule on his own, while I’m working remotely. With limited accommodations, he keeps up, logs in, and stays on top of everything. The responsibility he shows now? Some adults don’t even have that down.
3. Compassion & connection with others: He's an only child, but you’d never guess it by how caring and patient he is. Some years ago, I babysat a 5-year-old girl, and Quincy was SO patient, kind, gentle, helpful, and completely in tune with her needs. He’s also the first to ask how someone’s doing, especially if he hears they’re sick. His heart? Pure gold.
4. Expanding interests & trying new things: He’s trying new foods (even has new favorites!) and surprises me with what he’s open to. He bakes cookies, grows herbs and veggies, and still finds time to build jaw-dropping Lego sets and original creations. Creativity lives in him.
5. A sense of humor & shared moments: Maybe my favorite win: he gets my sarcasm. I’ll say something off the wall, and he’ll give me this little smirk that says, “I caught that.” It’s those tiny moments that remind me he’s listening, he understands, and he’s got his mama's sense of humor.

Every child’s journey is different. But never let anyone write the ending before the story even begins. Celebrate the small wins. They add up in big ways.

Want to ask me anything about our journey? Join me Tuesday, April 29th at 12:30 PM CST for a live Q&A on Instagram! I’m answering questions about autism, parenting, progress, and keeping your sanity in the process. Click here to submit your question anonymously.

And don’t forget! My autism course is 25% off through the end of the month. It’s made for parents just starting out or feeling stuck in the process. You don’t have to wait for support. Check it out here.