Single mother of two autistic babies

My life has been Forever changed by autism. I have a nephew who was diagnosed with autism when he was 24 months old. Within the next couple years my best friends daughter was also diagnosed as well. They are 11 and 8 now.
I have two babies who were blessings after lifelong battles with miscarriage. They are my pride and joy. I started noticing in my daughter Olevia at about 5 months old- very quiet. Doesn't cry. I knew in my heart she had autism. I never mentioned it to anyone except my best friend I mean everyone would think I was crazy. Especially my husband. Me and my husband split when she was about 6 months old. I started really noticing more as she got a little older. No eye contact whatsoever ever. I kept thinking ur a crazy person. She's too young. Born 6 weeks early. But I couldn't hold back any longer. I brought this to my kids doctors attention. they immediately booked double appts for Caidyn and Olevia. Moving around others to get my babies in sooner. It was the worst five weeks of my life waiting. Waiting to hear what ur head knows they r going to say but your heart can't believe. They diagnosed my son Caidyn at 24 months and my Olevia at 11 months ( 9 and a half months corrected age with full blown autism. They both have very similar behaviors- they cry a lot they bang there heads Caidyn jumps all day has meltdowns prob once an hour. My daughter watches him and copies everything now I am overwhelmed. One thing is for sure I will take my last breath-my last bit of strength to help and care for my babies. It hasn't even been two months since I found out and I have started taking all the neccesary steps to better there life. Mommy loves u both more than u will ever or can ever imagine. I will not let autism control me. I will be strong even when I feel like I can't. For both of you. Forever.

Desiree Bradley
Albany, NY