As an autism mom, I know that trying to heal our children can feel like a hopeless task. It’s hard to know which direction to go in and which interventions to put your time, money, and energy into. And when you do try something and it doesn’t work – well, that is such a huge blow.
Finding Hope
There are now lots of recovery stories to bring you hope. But sometimes they can make you feel worse. Because, maybe you tried some of those amazing things and your child didn’t respond. Or, maybe you can’t afford the cost of one doctor visit ($500+ dollars/hr not covered by insurance is now considered a bargain for treating a medically complex kid), let alone the cost of a home sauna, or HBOT, or a stem cell transplant, or (insert ongoing list that quickly exceeds all of your assets for life). Maybe you can’t get your child into a school or program or therapy that might really be able to meet his needs. Or maybe you are just getting by and your feel like nothing is working.
I want to share a story that helped me. It was told to me, so some of the details may not be exactly correct. But, the message is clear. I hope it helps bring a little hope to this immense challenge that we autism parents have been tasked with.
The Bunny Story
Once Upon A Time 🙂 … There was a lab where scientists were studying the toxicity of chemotherapy. The researchers were giving rabbits chemotherapy to determine what dose would most effectively kill the cancer. They also wanted to see at what point the dose became high enough to also kill the patient. So, the rabbits were given more and more chemo until they died. But one rabbit continued to live despite the increasing doses. The researchers were baffled. When the bunny’s life expectancy continued beyond doses that had always previously proved lethal, they decided to investigate. When they reviewed the camera footage of the lab, they found out what was happening. Every night the janitor who cleaned the lab would go to this rabbit’s cage. He would then take him and cuddle him. This bunny was loved.
Focus On Love
Love can have a profound affect on healing. There is a reason that most holistic cancer treatment plans include a spiritual component. It has been proven that love and support can positively affect health and wellbeing. People who have had unexpected, unexplained recoveries often attribute their outcomes to love.
Healing our children is not easy. So when it feels like nothing is working; or when it feels like you are priced out of recovery; or when you are just at the end of your rope – please remember this story. Your love for your child is important. Love does make a difference! It might even be what matters the most ♥
My autism journey has changed the way I live and care for my family. I am passionate about nontoxic products, natural remedies, grain-free nutrition, essential oils, and healing the symptoms known as autism. This is a space for anyone aspiring toward cleaner, healthier living.
XO Joanna
