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Carla is the mom of a son.

Do you work outside the home? If so, what do you do?
I am an RN and in management. My specialty areas are Labor and Delivery, Critical Care and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE).

What do you do to relax?
During my quiet times I love to doodle, draw, paint and read books. I also enjoy spending time with family and riding my motorcycle. Out on the road with the wind in my face I can make almost any problem go away, just for a little while.

What else would you like to tell us about yourself?
My son is my everything! Yes, he has an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but he is loving, caring, sweet, playful and I wouldn't change him for anything in the world. He is perfect.

What benefits has Connecting for Kids brought to you and your family?
Kinship and friendship is the foundation of what Connecting for Kids has provided for me. They have also provided resources and advice along with much needed education. Connecting for Kids means I'm not alone!

Which have been your favorite Connecting for Kids resources?
My favorite resource provided by Connecting for Kids has been reaching out for help and someone always being there!

What I worry about most…
As a parent of a child with autism what I worry about most is my son’s future. Being so uncertain about what and how I teach him and how those things will impact the rest of his life. I want the best for him. I worry about whether or not he will be able to take care of himself in adulthood and I worry about my own health and how long I will be here for him.

The hardest thing for me to learn was...
The hardest thing for me to learn was my child does not have a disease. Autism is a learning disability, social anxiety disorder, a sensory processing disorder, and inability to communicate among many other things but my child is not dying.

The worst thing about parenting a child who struggles is...
The worst thing about parenting a child who struggles is not knowing if what I am doing is the best or enough. All the guidance in the world and there are still no solid answers.

We'd love to know if you have any go-to resources such as blogs, websites, or books that we can share with other parents.
I am part of the Connecting for Kids Facebook Chat Group and that seems to be my number one resource. I get advice from educated, experienced people and most importantly meet other parents like myself.

Is there anything else about your journey that you would like to share with other parents?
I have learned that every parent and child's experience with autism is individual and unique. Some may think I'm crazy but I wouldn't change it for anything in the world. I love my son just the way he is.

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