Partner in Crime … Kathleen
Another crazy force behind this awesome website … We present to you Kathleen!
Once upon a time, I read that autism parents have stress levels comparable to war veterans. I don’t know if it’s true (I haven’t found the science to back it up…yet) but I believe it. That’s why I’m here.
My name is Kathleen and I’m an autism parent. My son is six and was diagnosed in 2013 with (in order) Global Developmental Delay (GDD), Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Beyond his diagnosis (because, as we know, that’s not all he is), he loves telling jokes, can count to over a hundred already and slams his door like a teenager when he’s pissed at me. My daughter is a year old and she’s shaping up to be as much of a handful as her brother. Although he watches hockey a little too much for my taste, my husband of eleven years is an amazing dad, the perfect partner in crime and a great teacher to his grade seven students.
Here are some things about me that might be interesting to know:
- I’m originally from Texas and met my husband online playing pool. We married in 2006 and I moved to Canada shortly after. I grew up saying “y’all” and “yes ma’am” so if those phrases slip out, you know why.
- I’m a major movie fan, so much so that I can’t narrow down a favorite. I can, however, narrow down a few favorites according to genre and year. Consequently, I’m fluent in movie lines. Don’t believe me? Ask the dishes.
- Reading is another passion of mine. I’ve read a lot of classics, but romance novels are my guilty pleasure, especially the steamy, slow-burn type.
- Coffee is my life blood. It’s the very first thing I think of in the morning, and I’m not exaggerating.
On a more serious note, I have a passion for helping newly diagnosed parents, particularly those that may be struggling with mental health difficulties. I battled with mental health problems for almost a year after my son was diagnosed. My experiences with anxiety (and the subsequent issues with prescribed antidepressants) inspired me to help other parents who may be in the same boat.
I’m here to be someone people can talk to. If you need a shoulder to cry on, message me. Life has chosen to make your path a difficult one to tread, but you can always talk to me if you need help along the way.
Cheers!
Kathleen