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Parent's Voice on Autism

Christy Reinhardt lives in Dutchess County, New York, with her husband and two sons. Since her son Crew was diagnosed with autism as a toddler, Reinhardt has been learning all there is to know about life on the autistic spectrum. Along the way, she created Crew's Voice, an organization to help other parents raise children with special needs.

My Purpose

Fri Oct 01 2010

From the day my first child Cross was born, I felt like I had a purpose in life. I didn't quite know who I was before he came along. Now I have another son Crew, who has autism and has enriched my life even more. Presently, the purpose of my life has become the overwhelming task of doing (and I do mean this in every sense of the word) the most I can for Crew. Sometimes I try too hard and get disheartened when Crew is not progressing quickly. Sometimes I try too little because I'm so exhausted and drained. I feel like I give so much that I have no joy, other than Crew's progress, in my life. Most of all, though, when I reach Crew, there's no other high in the world like it. I know that my son needs me, that he appreciates me and all that I do for him. Crew works hard because he knows he has his mom's love and support. That gives me such a feeling of satisfaction.

I know now that is why I was put on this earth. I've always been told I have a lot of love in my heart. If that extra love is needed for this child, then I am glad I have it. Fueling Crew's progress has given me purpose that I never had before. I now possess a strength for learning and teaching that I never gave myself credit for. For Crew's autism, I am thankful. I know that sounds funny but it's my life's purpose.

Comments (1)

Minecraft on March 08, 2011

It's interesting to see this point of view. I can't say for sure if I agree or not, but it is something I will think about now.