Finding Hope! - Tina Hudson from Jacksonville

I remember my child talking pretty well for a one-year-old, but around 18 months everything changed. He stopped repeating words after me, and he wouldn’t mimic us. I just knew something was different, based on my background working around people with special needs. 

At regular doctor appointments I mentioned that he had stopped talking, but the response was, “he’s a healthy growing boy.” I had seen autism before, so I had some awareness. One day, during an appointment for one of my other kids, I took a deep breath, apologized for bringing it up, and shared my concerns about my son. I explained how he stopped talking at around 18 months, would just sit and stare, and how he lined up toys. The nurse practitioner listened quietly, had me fill out paperwork, and said she would put in a referral to the Early Intervention program.  

They contacted me within a week. They came to our home to assess him, noticed some delays, and referred us for further evaluations. It was a long process with a lot of paperwork, but I was determined.  

He began receiving services at home. As a parent, you have to do your part, and I was that parent. I didn’t want my child to be labeled as a “behavior kid” when I knew that wasn’t it. After completing several hours of testing, we finally had answers: he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. We cried, not out of sadness, but because we finally understood.  

Today he is thriving—physically, mentally, verbally, and socially. He speaks in full sentences, expresses emotions, and participates in community activities. If I could leave a message for any parent concerned about their child: don’t give up. Keep seeking answers and follow your heart. You know your child best.