The new realities of a pandemic have been trying for most families in one way or another. Being a full-time working mom and having a daughter with autism, this new reality has rocked our household. Since the age of 13 months, our four-year-old daughter has been receiving services for her delays. April being Autism Awareness Month, combined with COVID-19, is bringing out many conflicting emotions.First, we are very proud of our daughter. Her autism does not define her. She is beautiful, she is unique, she is joyful, and she is our light in the darkness. The second emotion is a feeling of disappointment. To clarify, the disappointment stems from societies views of those with disabilities and our own shortcomings. We expect those in our society to be more understanding and accepting, when most times they are not. Often, I feel I am not meeting my own expectations as a mom and as a professional in the field. This is the hardest part for me. Right now, we are all going through a time of uncertainty, confusion and fear. This time of anxiety has given us the opportunity to come together with others and utilize my resources understanding that we cannot do this alone. We are learning to lower our personal expectations and use those resources that are always available.

We are giving up some control to find our new normal. The ACES team has been by our side, since day one, to help us in this continued and ever-changing challenge. ACES continues to provide resources, support and amazing services through this most difficult time. Our daughter receives direct in home and Telehealth therapy sessions. Having ABA on demand via Telehealth has created an opportunity for her services and progress to continue despite the changing world around us. Having the support of ACES has made her transition to this new reality a little bit easier. We are incredibly grateful for our ACES family.