Title Helping parents whose children have autisim
Funding round 2
When G was first diagnosed with autism ASD at the age of 5, P was filled with relief, vindication and confusion. Although he had suspected that G had difficulties for some time he was lost when it was finally confirmed. His doctor reeled off lots of services and things to consider and P felt really overwhelmed at the thought of managing all of the paperwork and logistics.
His doctor helped greatly and P felt very supported by her – even to the point of successfully helping him to get DLA.
P said that when it came down to emotional support he felt very isolated at first – with not much support from family and friends. At this point he started volunteering at Daisy Chain and this gave him his energy outlet and network of support.
P's way of managing and supporting Gavin was almost as a mediator between G and the rest of the world. P carries around cards with an explanation on to give to people who he feels are judging him and G. He uses diversion techniques and plans outings to avoid problems. P is very strategic and practical in his approach to G.
The only space P allows himself is a 5 minute wind down when they get home after a bad day out.
P said that he would really appreciate the opportunity to meet up regularly with other dads in similar circumstances for mutual support and advice.
P's one piece of advice for dad's new to this kind of situation was to take each day as it comes and look for the good in every day.