The brain is much more complicated than many realize and we are taught very little about it. I have had the pleasure of being thrown 3 different brain related, life events. All 3 affecting the functionality of the brain.
The first being when my strong, caring, step- father Mark was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s at age 50. Second was my daughters diagnosis of being on the Autism spectrum in 2015. She was then about 2 ½ years old. The last one was the most challenging for sure. I myself was struck with Meningitis/ Encephalitis. the recovery and adjustments have taken tons of time and energy and I still take one day at a time.
Luckily I try to focus and think about the positives. These challenges have made me much stronger. Well, depends on the day! 🤣
So why am I writing this Blog? My hope in writing this is that I can help others find the resources, services and support they need. I have found that just simply knowing you are not alone helps ten fold. The feeling we all often need. Life is full of ups and downs. The problem for many of us is knowing where to start and who to talk to along the route. So, Here I am!.
I have found for myself that hearing others stories and adventures help me to accept. Help me feel a little more at peace in the crazy world we live in.
As many of you know, the journey of parenthood is difficult enough, but having a child on the autism spectrum can make it feel impossible at times. Especially if you are a single parent.
I am the mother of 3 beautiful children. My two older children are grown, graduated and living independently in my hometown of Ellensburg, Washington.
I left this lovely smalltown in 2016. Not because I wanted to, but because it was necessary. I needed to pursue further help for myself and my young daughter. Services that are very difficult to find in a small town.
My daughter Brooklyn came into my life as a surprise in December of 2012, by far the best surprise I have ever had. I wake every morning and think of her smile and hugs. This thought gives me a reason to get up and go. Thank God…..because I needed that drive!!
February 21st, 2016, I was hit with HSV-1 Encephalitis and Meningitis a rare illness that causes infection and swelling in the brain. I was ambulanced from Ellensburg to Seattle and almost died. The recovery was complex and my view of the world is now very different from before.
You must be thinking, how is my my illness at all relevant to the Autism Spectrum and why are you referencing it on this page? Fair question.
I would say that my understanding of the brain, it’s capabilities and limitations is so much clearer now. I have a few limitations that require adjustments in my life but they haven’t broken me. My patience for my daughter and her needs have not changed but I am more understanding of her frustrations.
The Asperger’s and Autism spectrum is a huge range. “On the spectrum” refers to the specific set of behavioral and developmental problems and challenges associated with Autism. The brain controls every aspect of our being so it’s kind of important to know a bit about it. Right?
My resume is large and includes 15 years in Banking, A owner of both a flooring company and Coffee house, along with lots of community involvement. By far the most relevant part of my resume is the information and experience I have with the Autism world. I will be including on this site an extensive amount of information on Autism support groups, IEP-Management, Autism Speech Therapy, Vocational services, Sensory integration therapy and use of assistive technology. ADHD medication management and childcare services for special needs.
I myself have been thru Physical Therapy for my nerves and Physical therapy for my brain. This time for myself may not seem relevant but it did teach me a lot about the mind and body. Lessons we all should be taught.
I have been busy bee in life and resting my mind was the last thing on my list. However, back then at least I always had a purpose, other than my children of course. So now my hope is that this will reach many and give me that purpose I need and help that you desire.
My stories and knowledge shared here will be about Brooklyn and I’s current and past life experiences. It will also include different resources and services that are available. In some of my stories I will share things that will shock you, make you laugh, cry, and ultimately, my wish is that it helps you understand you are not alone. We all feel alone at times, but I promise you’re not. Remember to take one moment at a time. We got this….