From a single Parent -
Butterflies has made the world of difference to my child and me.
Progress is slow but steady.
Life is an on-going struggle but I take a day at a time.
The first Butterflies meeting in September 2009 was an education!
I have learnt that I am not alone in my concerns.
My child is not unique in his experiences and there are people in every organisation who understand, care and are empowered to support us.
Butterflies has transformed me as a parent, carer and as a person.
In turn I am supporting my son, other carers and the wider community.
Jane.
A mother's Prayer
I watch as you lay sleeping
Soft respite from your trials
To stop my heart from weeping I remember all your smiles
Another day of tempest
Your fearful eyes trust mine
I rescue you, I give you rest
I hold you so you'll shine
This journey overwhelms me
The world sets you apart
Different you may be
They wound your child-like heart
They cannot see your gentle soul
They're blind, they heave and sigh
Together we will reach your goal
To be a Butterfly!
TW.
When my son was first diagnosed as having 'high functioning' Autism, I was devastated, even though I was obviously aware that his behaviour was not typical of a child his age. We had reached the point of needing to know what was going on with him and how to help his anxiety and mammoth tantrums.
I wanted to believe that his behaviours were 'my fault' as had been previously implied by the professionals. I felt that if this was the case, I could correct the problems. However, when the diagnosis was finally Autism, I knew he would never be that typical child and that his life would always be more of a challenge, not to mention the effect it would have on our own lives.
At this point, I wanted to stay in 'denial' and not accept the diagnosis.
When I then found the Butterflies Support Group, I realised that I had to accept his Autism in order to move forward. Sitting with others who all had their own individual stories yet with the same common thread of dealing with Autism, helped me to reach this new way of thinking.
When I sat and listened to the other parents it made me realise that I was not alone yet it also made me face up to the reality. My child displayed the same behaviours that the other parents were talking about and I needed to accept this.
The support and advice from other Butterflies members has proved to be invaluable to me. To be able to talk with others who understand is such a relief.
Diane and Julian.
