Happy Siblings Day, Especially To Autism Sibs

It’s Siblings Day! It’s also one of my favorite Holistically Whole traditions – the annual shout-out to Autism Siblings! I always give a shout-out to my crew (and when I look back at prior years I can’t believe how little they were!), followed by shout-outs from some of my favorite fellow autism parents (You can see previous years’ shout-outs here) to their amazing autism siblings. Their inspiring words and pure love for their children always warms my heart ♥
We could all use a little bit of that now, especially while going through Autism In The Time Of Corona.

My crew this past summer – they are getting so bit!

As my kids grow older, they are starting to understand autism a little more. It’s not that they didn’t understand before; it’s just that because Christopher is the oldest kid, autism has always been with them. So, they’ve never known life without autism. And I think they are just starting to realize that other kids’ lives aren’t like theirs. In some ways this is harder for them (and when it is hard my heart breaks for them). But in other ways, it means they step up even more. They have a deeper understanding of helping our family thrive and a deeper appreciation for the little things. And as I watch their compassionate grow, my love for them deepens as well,

Don’t get me wrong – they get frustrated too! But they are amazing people. And while life with autism has certainly added difficulties to their lives, I believe it has added strengths that will help them change the world.

See below why some more reasons why Autism Siblings are so awesome!

Happy Siblings Day!

Dear Kirsten:

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being such a wonderful big sister to Kellie! I know it has been challenging since Kellie often requires so much attention. You always come through when Kellie needs you the most, especially during this covid19 quarantine. You showed kindness, love and compassion when she was upset about being quarantined and had more anxiety than the norm. You kept her engaged and distracted and taught her how to do fun and important teen things like Animal Crossing and art. You take care of her, you motivate her and you are her role model. She always wanted to be just like her big sister – since she was a baby. You are an inspiration to us both! We love you Kirsten!

-Carolyn, Eden Prairie, Minnesota

To Lily:

I was showing a picture of the kids to a friend and the person remarked “I love how Lily has her arm draped around her brother. It’s like she it protecting him”…and that’s when I noticed it myself. Virtually very picture of the two of you -from toddler-aged on, you are embracing your brother, protecting him. Just like in life. You understand him in ways others do not. You can talk to him and calm him, engage our guy and do what needs to be done to make him happy. You are so compassionate, thoughtful and generous with your time and heart. Daniel lucked out in the sibling department and we could not be more proud of the young women you have become.

-Kelly, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania

Dear Laila:

God knew we needed you more than we did and I am forever grateful and honored to be your Mother. You are such an AMAZING sister. Your patience, understanding, empathy, love, compassion and humor with Miles is contagious. You are caring and courageous. You are perfectly sassy. My little dancer, athlete, artist, chef, fashion designer … you will soar over mountains no matter what you do, and I know you will be sure your brother is right by your side. We love you so much!

-Heather, Pennsauken, New Jersey

Dear Aidan and Brooks:

You are both such great brothers to David. Aidan ~ you have shown patience and grace and have always been so supportive of David. Your brotherly love and friendship mean the world to him. Brooks ~ you say that David “is such a nice and sweet guy” and I appreciate that you see what an amazing person he is. David loves you very much. Thank you both for being so strong through the years. I am truly blessed to be your mother.

–Sarah Carrasco, The Autism Helpbook

Dear Mason and Landon:

Thank you for being Mommy’s best helpers with Lincoln. Mason ~ thank you for always making me laugh. Landon ~ thank you for always dressing up in your awesome costumes.