Are you familiar with Shel Silverstein’s classic book called “The Giving Tree”? This photo popped up in my Facebook memories yesterday.  I signed a copy of this book on Christmas, 1995 as a gift for my first born daughter.  I knew that I would give anything and everything I could to her. I did not know that autism would mean I would have to give quite so much, maybe even down to a stump.

I have seen so many social media posts from families really struggling during this COVID culture. Violence at home. Children from young to adult having dangerous behaviors as as a result of the tumultuous changes. The losses.  Suffering depression. Malaise. Loss of skills.

We try to cover many topics on AofA, but I always want to return to our heart and soul. The men and women, mothers and fathers, the children facing the unfathomable and ever changing challenges of life and autism.  So I ask you, HOW ARE YOU DOING?  For real. Not the stuff we tell our families and friends so as to keep the conversation light. What are your needs right now? How can we help each other.  Leave your comments. Use your name or not - if you need anonymity, we understand. If you are really in need, email me personally at KimRossi1111@gmail.com and I'll try to connect you with help.

Some days I am indeed ground right down to a stump with the work required to take care of every aspect of life for three beautiful ladies with autism. That said.... I AM happy. Not the happy I imagined as I held my daughter almost 26 years ago as a young wife. But happy nonetheless. I'd love to hear from you. Let me know.