As a parent, the struggle is real.  Every day is a challenge, and an adventure, to say the least.  The simplest things can become very difficult for a child with Autism.  They get overwhelmed and cannot handle too many things at one time.  For example, whether trying to focus in class or stay in line for a basic task, constant redirection is needed. At home, it is no different:  keeping them organized so they can find things on their own without any help becomes an extremely great challenge.  They cannot make decisions without seeking approval;  it gets very frustrating and we become easily overwhelmed.

At times, my son gets so anxious that he talks to himself and beats himself up.  As a mom who loves her child, it hurts to see him go through this.  While these external behaviors are happening, beautiful reactions are taking place internally as well.  Inside, these children are loving and caring individuals.  My son can talk about politics and start very intellectual conversations, but struggles with simple decisions such as what to wear for school.  He can be very social and speak to anyone he sees.  As good as that can be, however, it is also frightening because he doesn’t understand boundaries or the dangers that may arise in those situations.

So here I am, focusing my time on trying to help him, while also trying to become a successful entrepreneur running two businesses, one as a Realtor and one in wellness and nutrition.  I am passionate about both because I enjoy helping people reach their goals and dreams.  It is a balance between my son’s needs and my own.

I want to encourage other parents who may feel similar struggles.  Even though it is a life-long challenge to see where my son started and how far he has come, it has, and always will be, worth it.  It is important to remember to continue to encourage children with Autism and to give positive affirmations to them.  Deep inside, they want to be loved just like everyone else, even if they can’t always show that love back.  Be a role model for them, because even though they can’t express the emotions deep inside their complex brains, they are taking it all in.  It takes a little longer for them to process, but in due time it will come out.

I am wishing my child will aspire to do great things, and I can only hope that my dedication and determination to never give up, and to always follow through with my passion, will one day spark that in him as well.

Stay positive and focused on the lifelong goals, whatever they may be.

Submitted by Cape Coral resident Vincenza Olson