Here is Part 3 of our “My Autism Story” series, with Zippy Wanjiru. Enjoy!
What is your name?
Zippy Wanjiru
How old is your child?
He is 7 years old.
When did you discover your child had autism?
We discovered he was autistic when he was 3 and a half
How has your autism journey been?
My journey has been a mash-up of all the emotions a human being can experience in a lifetime; sad, heartbreaking, scary, guilt-racking, draining…and yet at the same time joyful, amazing, awe-inspiring, reflective, humbling, and full of gratitude
How has autism affected your life on a day-to-day basis?
Autism has made me more tolerant of the people around me. I try to see every situation from a point of better understanding that people aren’t always who their behavior portrays.
Do you do any kind of therapy? What are the costs like? Is the therapy helpful?
Yes, we do occupational therapy and it has been of great help. He is calmer, able to express himself better, has less negative behavior e.g. self-harming habits, and can do various daily activities independently.
How about school? Is your child in school? What is the experience like for you and your child? If your child is not in school, how do you keep him/her engaged?
Initially, school was such a draining affair, both physically and emotionally. Luckily, we have found a school that has been quite accommodating though I’d still want better.
What keeps you going and not giving up?
Love…because love always, always hopes
Do you practise self-care? Do you ever get a chance to recharge?
Yes, if I’m able to get away I do; go for coffee or pizza, do my nails, window shop. If I can’t get away, I lock myself in the bedroom and listen to music, read a book or watch Netflix.
What advice would you give parents of special needs children?
It’s tough but we must constantly remind ourselves that these kids came to us for a reason. They are the teachers we needed and we are the caregivers they needed.
What advice would you give a parent who is scared of getting their child checked for autism?
Yes, you are scared, but do it scared, anyways. Knowing whether your child is on the spectrum is daunting but it’s the only way to get them the critical care he/she needs to reach their full potential.
What words of encouragement would you give a parent who has just gotten the news that their child has autism?
Your child is not broken, just wired differently and that’s OK and you shall be OK too.
What quote or Bible verse keeps you going?
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.