Brigitte has one child and lives in Willoughby Hills.

What do you do to relax?

What’s that?

What else would you like to tell us about yourself?

I am my child's only parent and she is autistic.

What I worry about most…

I am the first & last line of defense for my child. What happens if she can't take care of herself as an adult? I worry about her all the time. I am a single mother who is also taking care of my mom as well. There's no rest for me but I will never give up on my daughter! I am working hard to help my daughter gain skills so she can have the best life possible! Autonomy is the name of the game!

The hardest thing for me to learn was...

I was 36 years old when I had my first and last child. She is 6 and was diagnosed with autism at 3. I knew that there would be challenges and I thought that I would have help. I don't want this to sound selfish but I have helped everyone around me. I have no help with my daughter and no breaks. My support team consists of 3 elders that are well above the age of 79 years old. Raising a child who is neurodivergent ain't for the weak! Also, those same people who abandoned us, are no longer in our lives!

The best thing about parenting a child who struggles is...

My daughter is the best teacher I have ever had! She teaches me how to be patient and take time to look at life! We learn together and her diagnosis has made me research about the spectrum. I wouldn't change anything about our journey together! I love my daughter so much!

Do you have any recommended resources such as blogs, websites, or books that we can share?

The Gentle Life (YouTube Channel)

Is there anything else about your journey that you would like to share with other parents?

I am blessed to be able to go on this journey with my daughter! I don't look at my daughter as having a disability, she is magic and I am here for it! Also, take care of yourself so you can take care of your child. Your child deserves a well-rested parent.