Gaps in Western Medicine’s Autism Approach

A Mother’s Perspective

My daughter was diagnosed with autism in May of 2023.

That diagnosis was difficult to digest at first. I did what I always do when I’m spiralling: I dove in and learned everything I could about autism. I devoured scientific articles, mom blogs, dietary tips and tricks, and sought out any and every specialist I could find.

Since then, I have single-handedly supported my brilliant, beautiful daughter as she learns to understand herself and make her mark on the world.

And let me tell you, it ain’t always easy. People can be shitty, cruel, and eager to spout their own ignorance and insecurities onto those of us who are proud and passionate about our children’s uniqueness, which is exactly what autism is.

Autism is not a disease or disability to me.

If you’re stupid enough to say something like that in my vicinity, you’re simply not welcome in my world.

My kid doesn’t need toxicity right now. She’s five. She needs unconditional love, time, space, and a safe environment to figure herself out before she has to brace for the bullshit the world will inevitably throw at her in school and, later, at work.

That’s my focus: protecting her, cultivating her confidence, and making sure that when she goes out into the world, without her mom there, to kick the shit out of anyone who tries to dim her shine, she’ll know how to separate the…