You Don't Know My Story

Lack of exposure to the autistic spectrum typically means that you just Don't Know. You have no clue. Elise didn't and will be the first to admit to being critical of parents, even in general - prior to her child-rearing years! Her first-born made her re-evaluate many preconceptions but she was reassured as all milestones were met in leaps and bounds with 'off-the-charts' early accomplishments to be proud of. Enter a second child who was actually easier as an infant but over time presented as 'off-the-charts' delayed. With next to no support or even awareness in the small island nation of Dominica, Elise struggled with parenting: shifting expectations, absorbing others' inputs, hospital visits, early education and her own health issues stemming from increased stress.