Beyond the Diagnosis: A Mother’s Unfiltered Journey with Autism
Parenting is never a straight road—it’s filled with unexpected twists, challenges, and moments of pure joy. But for parents of neurodivergent children, that journey can be even more complex, requiring a level of resilience and advocacy that few truly understand. In a world that often misunderstands or romanticises autism, real stories from parents navigating this reality are essential. That’s why we’re sharing the deeply personal journey of Erica, a mother whose love, strength, and honesty paint an unfiltered picture of raising a child with autism.
Life has a way of surprising us, and my journey as a mother has been no exception. I have two wonderful boys, Edoardo and Lupo. Edo, my firstborn, is a beautiful, strong, and mischievous 9-year-old with autism. His autism is not a “superpower” as often portrayed in films but a significant challenge in his daily life. He is preverbal, only able to say one or two words at a time, and his frustration at not being able to communicate can lead to intense meltdowns.
Edo was a typically developing baby, meeting all his early milestones. But by 18 months, when he wasn’t yet talking, we started to worry. Being raised bilingual, we were reassured he’d catch up. However, when he started Montessori nursery at 2, it became clear something was different. After tests and observations, autism was mentioned, and we were thrown into a complex and often broken system, left to navigate the journey mostly on our own.
Edo struggles with sensory issues, loud noises, certain textures, and unpredictability can completely dysregulate him. Meltdowns are heartbreaking; I’ve watched my son try to crawl out of his own skin, bang his head on the floor, and lash out in desperation. I have been kicked, bitten, and stared at in public. The judgment from others stings, but the hardest part is knowing he isn’t always understood, from myself also, as I too am learning day by day.
Despite these challenges, Edo’s determination is incredible. He is strong willed, hilariously cheeky, and fiercely affectionate. He has a deep love for nature, especially foraging, where he displays an impressive knowledge of edible plants. Some of our best moments have been in the woods, where he finds peace, and his words come easier.
Socially, Edo has struggled. His enthusiasm can be overwhelming for other kids his age. However, having recently moved to a SEN school, a transition that was filled with fear and uncertainty, has proved to be the best and biggest game changer for him. He is thriving. He enjoys school and has a class full of friends. This alone is a monumental achievement for him as he found it so very hard in mainstream.
His younger brother, Lupo, is his biggest supporter and protector. At just six, he understands Edo in ways many adults don’t. But balancing their needs is a constant struggle, and I often question whether I give Lupo enough attention. Guilt is an ever- present part of parenting a child with additional needs and one who gets left a little behind for reasons beyond my control at times, but we move forward, day by day.
To other parents on this journey—trust your instincts, surround yourself with the right people, and don’t be afraid to speak up. Progress may take time, but nothing is impossible.
If you’d like to follow our journey, find us on Instagram at @thestarwhisperer.