In this episode I chat with Sally, a mum of two children with ASD and a busy business owner - about her struggles, the many and constant ups and downs, what she's learned along the way and advice she's happy to share with other parents.

When Sally's son Arley was 3 years old it was suggested to her by a friend to have him assessed for ASD because he couldn't touch many objects and other apparent signs. A group of therapists evaluated him for three days, they couldn't make a diagnosis but encouraged her to seek further help so she did. Arley was then 4 years when when officially diagnosed.

Sally's view at the time of Autism was 'Rain Man'; that's what came to mind for her when she thought about the condition. It took her two years to come to terms with Arley's diagnosis and to learn about and understand it.

When she went down the track of trying to have her daughter Carmie assessed and diagnosed it was a real mission. Her trusted pediatrician and other therapists didn't believe her when she went to them for help to have evaluations performed. Eventually she found the help she needed and at 8 years old Carmie was diagnosed with Autism.

Both children have multiple conditions and associated challenges. It's been a roller coaster ride, and continues to be, for this family but they're rolling with the punches, always learning and trying to make the best choices as a family unit.

We hope you get a lot out of listening and we would appreciate your feedback, so please reach out via comments or email us. We'd love to hear from you.

Clint
Autism & Beyond Australia

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