hi all

[tinaADV3]

hi there, my name is Tina.

found this website and read some great discussion and feedback so decided to join

i am happy to help others and offer advice where possible :)

[cyberpedz]

Hi tina it seems that you posted as a guest if you are registered it is better to login and post as an actual member. Welcome by the way.
I am moving this to the introductions area.

[Janice Adamson]

Hello and welcome, Gina!

Sometimes life is difficult, even when the circumstances are seemingly better at moments. Having a child with autism is difficult at best, even more challenging when you have other children to care for. We are all here for a common reason and I see my situation as no better nor worse than anyone else's. I can offer you support and advice (when asked). I do understand that sometimes we only wish to be heard. I can empathize with your situation, many of us can.

I'm not an expert by any means, but I do have plenty of experience in both my personal and professional life. I am also awaiting respite care and services to be put into place, myself. The wait can be and is frustrating.

Oftentimes I am left feeling overwhelmed, yet I have to be patient with myself as well as my children. What helped me was doing some of the very same things that you've done... joining support groups, forums as well as advocating through different agencies for supports.

The most important thing I had to remember though, was that I was important, too. (We often forget about ourselves, and put everyone and everything else first.) I had to learn to put myself first, or I wouldn't be of any use to anyone. I started small, some days all I could manage was to put chapstick on... if nothing else I'd done something for myself for the day (no matter how small) and thought myself important enough to have done so. Some things don't have to cost money... simple pleasures like a bubble bath or listening to music, lighting candles...anything, yet something for myself. Self care. It is important to remember that even during the difficult times, that is when we need it the most. So start small, if you can expand on your interests and talents, it may open up a whole new world for you.

If you ever need help or a listening ear there are many of us here willing to support you. Welcome to the site and keep in touch... looking forward to hearing from you again!

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I'd also like to take the time to welcome others who visit the site, as well as new members. Tina, I hope that you join and register as a member on the site, too! We all have something to offer. You may have experiences you'd like to share about our commonalities, and even our differences. Some of us are searching for therapies, different views regarding medications,etc. - or may just enjoy reading and browsing through the sites. Thanks everyone for taking the time to read and/or post in the forums!☻