About Bella:
My beautiful daughter, Bella, was diagnosed with Autism when she was just 3 years old. She is nonverbal, and has many challenges ahead of her. Bella gets frustrated when she can't tell us what she wants and it breaks my heart. I worry about what her future holds, how she will be treated by others, and being able to protect her.
Sometimes when we go out it's too loud for her and she covers her ears (this is known as sensory overload.) She makes funny noises as she tries to talk, and has chewlry, which is a necklace that she can chew on to relieve the pain in her jaw, caused by sensory problems.
When we go out with my daughter, we get stared at, and some people even give her dirty looks. People think our daughter is rude when they ask her what her name is or how old she is, and she doesn't respond. We explain that she is nonverbal. Our daughter understands everything, but many times people assume that she is intellectually disabled because she cannot speak.
We are still in the process of potty training, teaching my daughter how to eat with silverware, communication, how to get dressed, and other basic necessities that are often taken for granted. The therapies that she needs are extremely expensive, and some are not covered by our insurance. This is a real struggle that families with Autism are facing.
My hope is that if we spread awareness, people will be more understanding, and compassionate. I hope that they will talk to their children about Autism, and spread empathy, sensitivity, and caring.
Thank You to Kennedy Ryan, Ginger Scott, and all of the wonderful authors participating to bring Autism Awareness to the forefront!
