We learned that we were not alone on this unpredictable journey. It was truly a breathtaking experience to see so many people in one place supporting other San Diego families dealing with autism, families that were just like mine. It also helped us adapt and open our eyes to the resources and the supports that were available.
Our son Cole was diagnosed with autism in 2010. Needless to say we were devastated. The autism diagnosis heavily impacted our entire family dynamic not just emotionally but socially and financially as well.
Shortly after that first Race, my husband started attending the Autism Men’s Group meetings. which I noticed led to a positive change in his outlook towards our son’s future and the future of our family.
In September of 2012, NFAR held its first Autism Mom’s Group. I went, excited and hopeful that maybe there would be a few of us moms that could now get together to talk, laugh, learn, and network sharing the resources, ideas and experiences in our own journeys. There was an overwhelming response from the moms that showed up to that first meeting. I looked around the overflowing room of women and listened as each mom introduced herself and told her story about her child. I found I was amongst a group of women that were just as unique, diverse, yet similar, as the children we loved and cared for.
All of us in Team Cole's Crew are looking forward to this year's upcoming Race, and being with so many within the autism community again. The knowledge and support that we’ve gained through attending NFAR's events has been extremely valuable and comforting.