It can be said that sometimes it is the autistic people that can amaze us by being brave. Over the past year, a lot has changed in my life. These changes have made me realize that I need to be brave for those who love me. Sometimes, I need to be the person they know I can be for them during their worst moments.

You may know about my father’s severe injury in May 2024. This is if you have been following this blog in the past few years. During that time, we spent most of the first year in and out of hospitals and care facilities. These places provided a wide array of experiences for all of us. It has been hard at times, even for the best person, to keep it together. During most of that first year, I made the trips to see my mother. She was at the facility where my dad stayed. I also took care of what my mom needed to do during that process. I can’t say that those many trips were always sunshine and rainbows. My negativity often surfaced. I avoided doing things or neglected my mental health for one reason or another. But I stuck it out each time. She always thanked me for going with her. She appreciated me sticking it out through thick and thin.

Just over a year ago he came back home. She had become his caregiver. It is something that is expected of married couples and is often said throughout their nuptials. I had a hard time accepting that for what it was. But, I ultimately knew it was what had to be done. If I was in that situation, either of them would do that for me. Being constantly tethered to my mother for much of my life, this was a hard change to adapt to. I had to extend myself a little more. I needed to be trusting and open to other people helping me out. This made me a better-rounded person. I became better because I had to be willing to rely on others for help and guidance.

It also meant that I had to start to lead my own life. This meant starting to do things for myself in ways that I needed to have them done for me. I felt the need to go to day services. I needed to work and see the value in doing what was necessary for me. This included focusing on my mental health and overall well-being. It was hard for a long time to see the good in it. There were times when I terrorized and threatened those who love me. Eventually, I made amends. I saw the need to be better at living my own life.

As we approach the two-year mark since this happened, many things have made me braver. They have strengthened me in moments when I thought I never would have been. I understand the importance of taking care of my mental health. This is especially true if the phone rings in the middle of the night. I am now more flexible than ever. I am adaptable when it comes to doing things. They can change in the matter of a phone call. This whole experience has strengthened me. I understand that I need to be there for the people I love.