About Me
The Autism M.O.M. – “Mom on a Mission”
My name is Heather Phillips, and I am a full-time journalist turned over-time mom of a nine-year-old “typical” daughter and a 7-year-old son with autism. Being an autism mom is a role I hadn’t mapped out for myself; a role I never would have chosen. Nevertheless, it’s the deck of cards God handed me, and I’m playing the game the best way I know how.
Yes, my son has autism, and it’s taken me nearly four years to say that without getting a huge lump in my throat or tear in my eye. And yet, sometimes speaking the words aloud still feels like a kick in the gut — like when I’m sharing the news for the first time with a long-lost friend. A surge of emotion waves over me, flooding me with a feeling of sickness and disbelief that autism is our reality.
My sweet son, Carson, (his name changed for privacy reasons) is a shining light in our lives. He brightens the room with his silly grin, and makes us laugh and scream almost every day of our lives.
Yet, being an autism mom hasn’t been easy. Life’s been overwhelming at times. Lonely. Even scary.
But I’m a long way from where I was five years ago when the doctors dropped the bomb that Carson likely had autism. Autism has forced me to be stronger than I ever wanted; reach out for help when I wanted to do it on my own; and shift gears at a time in my life when I thought I had “it” all planned out.
I’m not one of those parents who accepts the disability and the limitations it places on my child. No, I’m not that kind of mom. I’m a fighter, because that’s what it takes! I’m an autism “M.O.M.” – mom-on-a-mission. It’s a mission to help my son fulfill his potential and purpose on this Earth; a mission to “pay it forward,” helping other parents on this difficult journey; and a mission to combat autism and find a cure.
My hope is to use this site as a platform to build a community with other families with special needs children. Let’s inspire each other to dream big dreams for our children; build each other up when we’re facing struggles; and empower ourselves through education.
I’d love to hear from you, and share our autism journeys together.
{ 12 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi, Heather,my 7 year old grandson is on the spectrum, receiving ABA, etc. and attends an autism class at a local public school.He is the middle child of my daughter and son in law’s three boys. The oldest, 11, has processing problems and has his own set of problems with learning, in addition to the 7 yr old on the spectrum. The 6 year old seems okay and motivated to learn.
My husband and I live close to their family and do all we can to help them get through their days and weeks. It’s not easy, as you know, but having some back-up is good. The best of luck to you in navigating the possibilities. We cheer every small advance that happens.
Gloria, thanks so much for sharing. It has been so helpful having my family nearby to help out, and I’m sure your daughter appreciates you being there for them too. It really is impossible to do it on your own. I’m looking forward to growing this blog and connecting with other families, so thanks for checking in! Heather
Hi Heather!
. I just wanted to compliment you on your website / blog (not sure I know the difference), and for listening & embracing what God has placed upon your your heart. I am certain that in reaching out to others and sharing your experiences – you will help others and encourage them to do the same.
My name is Chris (Tim Matson’s sister). I live in Kentucky, and have kept up with your family thru both Tim & your Mom’s awesome Christmas news letters. I used to babysit your husband – when he was about your son’s age. Although long ago, I am thinking he looks just like his Dad.
I have been blessed with the opportunity to volunteer with our church’s disability ministry for the past 10+ years and have cherished & learned much from the relationships with both God’s precious ones, and the parents/caregivers. We’ll be cheering & praying for you & your family, and for the success of this venue.
Blessings, Chris B
Chris, thank you so much for reaching out. It sounds like you are doing God’s work with your church disability ministry. That is awesome! And yes, everyone says my son is the spitting image of his Dad!
Same stubbornness and humor as well. 
Heather
Hi Heather,
This is Tim’s other sister, Ginny. My sis Chris in the previous comment pretty much gave you the background of the relationship between the Phillip’s and the Matson’s!! With Brad’s permission, Tim shared with me your blog. I think it is absolutely wonderful that you are compelled to share your son’s story, so that other parent’s of children with Autism don’t feel so alone.
What you don’t know about me is that I am an Adapted P.E. Specialist. I teach physical education to children with Special Needs, and I primarily work with ASD children. I have been doing this for 22 years now. I am part of the Diagnostic Pre-K Assessment Teams that do a multi-disciplinary, usually play-based assessment on those turning 3 and entering the public school system. I absolutely LOVE working the children on the Autistic spectrum. They are beautiful and unique in every way! I can’t wait to read more about ‘Carson’ in the future.
Ginny
Hi Ginny, Thank you for the note! I had no idea that you worked with special needs kids. It really takes special people to do that, and we are grateful for all the amazing people that have worked with our son. Please feel free to pass along this blog to any families you know who are looking to connect with other autism families. It’s my plan to grow this website and provide lots of information on therapies, resources, etc..
Heather
Hi Heather,
I am connected pretty strongly with a group of co-workers and parents with ASD children. We are all on Facebook, and, one of my parents started her own group on there called Autism Family. It is not only for our local group, but we have members from as far as New York City and many places in between. The members of the group have typically used it for sharing new ideas, therapies, equipment and what not, but to also discuss issues or frustrations they may need some friendly advice on. I would love to add you on Facebook, and then add you to the Autism Family group. From there we can plug your Blog
Ginny
Ginny – Thanks for pointing this out to me. I would love to be a part of this. I am in the process of setting up a Facebook page, but could do it through my personal Facebook page for now. Please send me an invitation to connect. Thank you, Heather (Fleming) Phillips on Facebook
hi my name is Shaun, I have autism, and I’m 11. My mom told me about your site and said she would help me write something. We are using the new HP touch pad. Cause the letters are big on it. She says to tell you what my interest are I’m a rarest for music and play in a band. I wear sunglasses on stage with reversed lenses . So I don’t look out at the crowed and get scared. I like learning how to talk around people but when I mess up I wish I could crawl in my hole and hide. But mom says its ok to mess up some times. Well mom says I have go now. Thanks Shaun and I love your web site.
Hi Shaun, Thank you for writing and sharing your story with us! I think that’s awesome that you are playing in a band. Don’t ever feel like you can’t mistakes! I’m sure your mom tells you — everyone makes mistakes! That’s how we learn. My son likes music too and I was thinking about having him try piano lessons. Take care and feel free to write any time you feel like it. Heather
Hi Heather
I was happy to come across your website. I have two boys on the spectrum, a 12-year-old with PDD-NOS and ADD and a 9-year-old, more affected, also with PDD-NOS and ADD. Life is definitely not what I thought it would be, but we get through the days as best as we can and try to make things as easy as possible for our sons. We are really blessed that we get a lot of help from our families, and I have also found a group of friends who have special needs children as well and that’s a big help too.
Best of luck to you…
Michele Purcell
Anyone know where to find support/resources for autistic moms? Not moms of autistics but moms who are autistic? I think society and the autistic community fail to realize autistic kids grow up into autistic adults. We don’t just get a social skills permit the day we turn 18.