Katelyn has autism. My daughter has autism. Finally I know, and I can breathe.
After months of worrying that the doctor would not see the signs that I knew in my heart were there, the doctor reassured me that she is indeed on the spectrum. Upon hearing this news, I thanked the doctor over and over, and I told her that she didn't even know how much weight she had just taken off of my shoulders. I know it must sound strange to think that a mother would be relieved, even happy, to hear that her daughter has autism, but when you have known in your heart and your gut since your child was a newborn that something was different with her, all you want is validation for those feelings, along with knowing that your child will now receive special services to help her be as successful as she can be throughout her life.
I am not one to cry about anything, even devastating news, but I cried the entire ride home. I was so overwhelmed with the relief of hearing the answer disclosed, even though I had known 100% all along that it was true. Hearing those words, "Katelyn definitely is on the spectrum," took away all of the heartache and worry that I had been holding onto for months, fearing that they wouldn't see what I knew, fearing that she wouldn't get the help that she needs.
We will receive her official detailed diagnosis on January 12th, which will outline exactly where she falls on the autism spectrum, and what specific services she will need.
Now, the journey truly begins.