Amanda - Interview 29

More about me...
Amanda, a part time yoga instructor, and her husband, a catering manager, have two children; Louis aged five and Georgia aged three. Louis reached the typical developmental milestones on time but when he was 2½ he stopped speaking. He was referred to the child development centre where autism was diagnosed when he was 3 years old. When Georgia got to two years old, her parents became aware that she hadn’t spoken yet and so she was also referred to the child development centre, where autism was diagnosed .
Louis and Georgia are very different. Louis is a very sociable, outgoing, loving little boy who loves having people round. He enjoys watching DVD’s and will copy phrases from them repeatedly. Georgia is a very independent little girl who loves being outside and playing with animals. She doesn’t speak yet but can communicate what she wants quite effectively. Both children are at a local special school where they are getting on well.
Amanda was upset when she found out about the autism but feels that you just have to get on with it. She finds her children fascinating and feels that her appreciation of their achievements is wonderful. Amanda has found becoming involved in a support group a tremendous source of support, particularly because her family can do activities with other families in environments where they do not stand out. She worries about what the future holds for her children but has a very supportive family.
We also spoke to Amanda’s mum, Janet, about her experiences of her grandchildren (see Janet’s story).
Louis and Georgia

Louis and Georgia
Amandas son recites sections from his favourite Disney DVD perfectly.
Amandas son recites sections from his favourite Disney DVD perfectly.
When Amanda goes out with her son the general public see him as a spoiled brat whose mum always...
When Amanda goes out with her son the general public see him as a spoiled brat whose mum always...
Amandas son is very rigid about what he will eat and likes what she calls autism fries.
Amandas son is very rigid about what he will eat and likes what she calls autism fries.
Have you changed their diets or tried anything like that…?
Amanda describes being exhausted by being on high alert all the time.
Amanda describes being exhausted by being on high alert all the time.
Amanda sometimes ends up snapping at her husband.
Amanda sometimes ends up snapping at her husband.
Amanda fought to get her son into a school for children with moderate learning difficulties.
Amanda fought to get her son into a school for children with moderate learning difficulties.
Amanda has found joining a support group essential for her family.
Amanda has found joining a support group essential for her family.
Amanda has been helped by a supportive partner, family members, a support group, yoga and wine.
Amanda has been helped by a supportive partner, family members, a support group, yoga and wine.
Amanda was pleased with the information pack she was given.
Amanda was pleased with the information pack she was given.
Amanda recommends support groups because it 'brings a bit of normality to it for you'.
