Heeeeeeey Momma:

This message is for YOU! Yes…YOU!

The momma who is walking in my shoes daily – sharing the same fears, hopes & accomplishments for their child with special needs

The one who doubles as the best friend, fierce advocate, teacher, Occupational Therapist, Speech Language Pathologist, masterful meltdown avoider & more

The one who forces a smile when hearing about the other milestones that the other children are meeting, while deeply yearning that yours does the same

The one who is the best possible expert on YOUR child

The one who worries that law enforcement will see their child as a threat, before seeing their child in crisis

The one who completely cut off family and friends, who chose ignorance over knowledge, regarding their child

The one who asks ALL the right questions (and then some)

The one who is always there

The one who asks, “ME time?! What’s THAT?!”

The one who remains stoic on the outside yet cries in the shower

The one who stays up into the wee hours of the morning, wondering, “Who will care for my child when I am no longer here?”

The one who has multiple children, including siblings, who often feel neglected

The one who hoards all the necessary snacks / foods that their child eats daily

The one who fights every day so their child can have simple pleasures – like equal opportunities…acceptance…A VOICE.

And lastly…

The one who has not yet heard, “I love you!”

This message is for you.

I am you.

You are dope. You are dynamic. You are unwavering.

You’ve got this!

Dekeda Brown is a blogger who shares her journey of raising a Black teenaged daughter with non-speaking autism. She invites the reader to "Walk One Day" in their shoes as she shares their experiences in life, promotes self care and helpful tips. In her spare time she--- (wait; what is SPARE TIME?!) Learn more at www.walkonedayinourshoes.com