Autism, This Is Why I'm Glad You Found Us

Dear Autism,

You may not know me, but I know you. My family and I know you well. You see, we became a member of the developmental disabilities club when I was just 4 years old. We didn’t know Autism. How could the little girl who talked a mile a minute possibly have Autism? How come the little girl who loved to talk with adults just couldn’t seem to understand how to ask other kids to play? Well, I’m here to tell you it’s possible. I’m living it.

Autism, I’m glad you found us. After years of looking for an answer — one we knew existed — you found us. And you began to change our lives.

You make me who I am, along with all the other characteristics that help make me, well, me! But you don’t by any means define me. I’m smart, kind, creative, helpful, loving, caring, honest and so much more. I also have autism.

I’m not going to lie to you, Autism, you make life interesting some days (both good and bad). No day is ever boring. There have been days I’ve wondered, Why? There have been days I’ve wished you away, just because I was so frustrated and confused. I’m sorry for getting frustrated with you. I don’t think I ever really want to wish you away because you help make me who I am, but sometimes I do wish the struggles were easier.

Autism, you’ve opened my eyes and my world to a whole new community of people over the last few years, and I thank you for this. I can’t thank you enough. Autism, you’ve led me to find some wonderful teachers, therapists and professionals, and I can’t imagine not knowing these people. You’ve taught me a whole new vocabulary complete with lots of letters such as, APE, IEP, ISP, PT, OT, SLP, FBA, ABA, BCBA, etc. You’ve taught me to think outside the box, and most of all, you’ve taught me to never, ever give up!

Yours Truly,

Chloe Rothschild

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