I had a mom text me “Kendra, my little girl has been diagnosed” I quickly replied back and asked her if she wanted to meet for some tea. We met and she expressed what the evaluation reported and how the clinician explained her overall development. This sweet mom didn’t seem very upset; I’m sure she was just trying to process it all. She had many questions about autism and appeared to start taking notes and making appointments. She did say, “I’m going to be taking my daughter to therapy for the rest of her life.” I asked her how she was doing. Mom indicated that she didn’t seem to have any feelings and I asked her if I could read something to her …she said, “Yes.”
I opened my Bible and started reading Jeremiah 29:11” 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Mom looked at me and started crying. We had the sweetest conversation over tea! We had a conversation about God, and about her future. We discussed hope and how we have an amazing God that we can rely upon. We talked about the power of prayer and even asked God to help us find the best therapists for her daughter.
When we left, mom hugged me and I could feel her fear her anxiety. I gave her some contacts so she could allow others to support and guide her. We discussed church and finding a church that could love on her. She expressed that she was raised in a church but just had some bad experiences. Mom has had a tough life and she seemed to have lost so much. Now she was trying to understand the loss of her dreams. Her dreams, like any parent has: the conversations, the giggles, shopping, slumber parties, pedicures, the social interaction that a mother and daughter have. I explained to her that those things are still possible but will take time.
As I got into my car I just sat there…not sure what to even pray. I was silent. Romans 12:12 came to mind… “12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.” Then, I realized that this precious child has the best team of therapists working with her and a mom that is willing to do anything for her. I will pray…pray for the mom, the child, the family, the therapists, and I will thank the Lord that He can Build All Children!
Kendra , thank you for sharing this story. I would be willing to be another support team member for this mom if she would be open to it. Our son doesn’t have autism; he has a rare degenerative brain disease but I have walked a similar path…..
Cindy, I’m sure she would love your support. She could use as much encouragement as possible. Please message me your information and I’ll send it to mom. Thank you!!!