Cassandra Whitaker

I am a mother to two boys, my younger son Wyatt was give a diagnosis almost a year ago of Non Verbal, Level 3 Autistic, with Sensory Processing Disorder and Speech Disorder. The process to get this diagnosis was long and difficult, and I went through an entire process of Denial, Acceptance, Education, and now Advocacy. I have worked at a birth to three program for almost two years which has helped me immensely in getting the tools I need to help my son, as well as resources for therapy services.

As Parents we all want our child to be accepted and included in everyday activities. We want other children to know that being different is not a bad thing. My son happens to be very visually different as he flaps his arms and stims vocally. Children as well as adults stop and stare at my son during daily outings, which can be a very difficult thing to deal with as a parent.

My goal is to not only help educate people on being inclusive to children with disabilities, but also to be kind and accepting to all. I also want other parents who feel like they are alone in facing a diagnosis such as this know that they are not. No matter your location, there are people and resources to help.

The most important message I can convey is to always Be Kind.