Having neurodivergent children who are both now adults has been both a challenge and a blessing. It has required patience, understanding, and a commitment to learning and adapting. It has at times been a difficult journey for me. Through their experiences, I have gained invaluable insights into the importance of acceptance, empathy, and the celebration of diversity. Their journeys have inspired me to advocate for greater awareness and support for neurodivergent individuals and their families.
My intention is to reflect on my children’s growth and achievements, through occasional blogs. I am so proud of them and am grateful for the lessons they continue to teach me every day.
I hope my experiences can offer encouragement, understanding, and hope to those who are walking similar paths or seeking to learn more about neurodiversity.
I despaired at times as I thought it would never be a reality for me to give birth. Three times I was pregnant before my son was born but each one did not culminate in the happy outcome we hoped for.
My husband took a contract to live and work in the Middle East for 2 years. During this time many of the expat wives became pregnant and I hoped that I would too. It happened during our second year in Iran and I was ecstatic when I walked out of the clinic holding my piece of paper indicating I was pregnant.
My son is my neurodivergent Rainbow Baby. He brought hope and beauty into my life, like a rainbow after the storm.
My daughter is my neurodivergent Golden Rainbow Baby. So named as she is my second, consecutive healthy baby.
Neurodivergent wasn't a term used when my children were born in 1977 and 1981, but I now see how perfectly it describes the double joy and happiness they’ve brought me.
One memory from our time living in Indonesia in 1983 makes this especially meaningful. After a torrential downpour, a rainbow ended in the middle of our garden. We all said how beautiful it looked. My son ran into the garden, certain there would be a pot of gold. His excitement turned to disappointment as of course there was no pot of gold. Watching from inside was my 2-year-old daughter. Had she heard the story of the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow? I don’t remember now but looking back I realise that moment showed me something lasting: they have always been my treasures. Together, like rainbow and gold in harmony, they bring love, joy and hope to our family.
I had no idea standing there that day that I had two neurodivergent children. I was in for an awakening I had never dreamt about.
More to follow ……..
