Why are parents so afraid of autism? Is it that scary that they would shun vaccines based on a blatantly fraudulent study? When my son was a child, did people look at him and say to themselves, I would rather risk my child’s health and those around him than have to raise a child like that? Exposing our most vulnerable children to a potential fatal disease is more important than having to raise a child with autism? I read a quote from a mother recently where she stated, “I would just be horrified if I looked into my daughter’s eyes and suddenly there was nothing there.” Is that what she thinks? Autism will turn her child into a zombie?

Maybe what society needs is a little autism enlightenment. Many may find this hard to believe, but children with autism are lovable. I in no way want to diminish the struggles of raising a child with special needs. But, the joys of parenthood did not disappear when my son was born. The love I feel for my son is no different than the love I feel for my non-autistic child. Frankly, I am offended that so many parents find autism so abhorrent that they would go to such extreme measures to ensure that they do not end up with a child with autism. My advice, get to know someone with autism. It’s not nearly as scary as you might think.

Login

Please note this login is to submit events or press releases. Use this page here to login for your Independent subscription

Not a member? Sign up here.