The Beauty of Unexpected Connections Autism Brings – Finding Cooper’s Voice

I was in a waiting room with my son, Zachary, completely unaware of my surroundings. Some days are easier than others, but on this particular day, he was smiling while playfully tugging at my hair, and I couldn’t help but smile back, my attention entirely on him.

We had the appointment, and I had just gotten him in the car when I turned around to see a woman standing in front of me.

She had a kind look on her face and asked me if Zachary was my son and if he had autism. I answered yes and told her a little about him. She got teary-eyed and said she had noticed us in the waiting room, and it made her think of her granddaughter, who was 3 and just recently diagnosed. She said her granddaughter also loves to play with her daughter’s hair.

She asked me if he could talk, and I spent the next few minutes giving her a brief overview of Zach’s communication journey. She thanked me for taking the time to speak to her and headed back into the clinic.

I have been thinking about that interaction a lot. I remember the emotions of a new diagnosis and searching for someone or something that could guide me through the unknown. She was trying to make sense of it all, and I completely understood.

It was meaningful to connect with her, and I am so glad she had the courage to approach me and ask questions. I love and welcome questions about Zachary!

She seemed to take joy in seeing me and Zachary together.

Typically, our presence is ignored or met with unkind stares in public, so sharing a few minutes with her was impactful. I felt better after speaking with her.

Our situation is often viewed as the worst-case scenario that newly diagnosed families imagine for their child’s future. No parent wants their child to grow up unable to live independently.

Zachary’s disability profoundly affects him, and we face challenges because of it. This is our reality, and there’s no escaping it. However, we also find joy in our commitment to serve Zachary and ensure he has a life filled with dignity and love. I sensed that the grandmother understood this, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more.

Written by Heather Woodring of Everyday Adventures with Zachary