Written By: Ashley (Mom)
Edited By: Felecia Causey
Photos By: Felecia Causey
This is a glimpse into our life with our two amazing boys, Carter and Jackson. Carter was diagnosed with autism at just two years old, and since then, we’ve walked through occupational therapy, speech therapy, and ABA therapy together. Now he’s in kindergarten, and watching him grow, learn, and shine in his own way has been one of the greatest blessings of our lives.
Jackson, our sweet 4‑year‑old, was diagnosed last year and is currently in preschool. He has the most amazing teachers who support him and love on him throughout the day, and he’s also in speech therapy as he begins his own journey. Seeing both of our boys navigate the world in their own unique ways has changed us in the best ways.
This space is where I share our real, everyday life the challenges, the progress, the emotions, and the joy. It’s a place to celebrate Carter and Jackson, bring awareness to autism, and connect through the beauty and reality of this journey we’re on together.
The process of getting Carter diagnosed took months appointments, waiting, second‑guessing, and hoping for answers. When we finally received his autism diagnosis, I struggled to accept it at first. I was in denial about what it meant for his future, but over time, I came to terms with it and began to see it not as a limitation, but as part of who he is.
Trying to get Carter the support he needed through an IEP was another challenge. He was assessed, but we were told he was ineligible because he could “sit still,” which was frustrating and disheartening, knowing there was so much more to his needs than that. Wanting the best for him, I made the decision to place Carter in a private school where I felt confident, he would be safe, supported, and truly understood. It wasn’t the easiest path, but it was the right one for him and that’s what matters most.
When Jackson started showing signs, I was told over and over again that he would grow out of it that he was too young. But something in me said otherwise, and I chose to trust my instincts and have him assessed. He was later diagnosed with auditory processing disorder, and we are still on a long journey with him. Jackson has faced some behavioral challenges at school, but with the support of his amazing teachers, we’ve already begun to see growth and improvement.
Both of my boys attend private school. I made that decision because of the smaller class sizes and the ability for them to receive more one‑on‑one attention. It gives me peace knowing they are in an environment where they are supported, understood, and given the opportunity to truly thrive.
My husband and I are incredibly blessed to have a loving family who shows up for us and for our boys. Whether it’s helping with therapy sessions, making it to doctor’s appointments, or stepping in when one of us can’t be there, we know we’re never alone family is always just a call away. I know that kind of support isn’t something everyone has, and we don’t take it for granted.
We’re also grateful to be part of a loving church home that has an amazing buddy program for Carter and Jackson. Because of it, they’re able to participate in children’s church in a way that meets their needs, and that means so much to our family.
If I could give any advice to other parents, it would be this: love your child no matter what. Educate others who may not understand what your child is going through. Speak up and be an advocate for your child. If something doesn’t feel right or could be better, say something. And above all, trust God through the process.
