Don't ever say goodbye completely

[Guest guest]

Channa,I also thought to write my book I had to get off the list and stop taking phone calls from parents who need help. At first I resigned from this list, but I couldn’t stop talking to parents who were on the ledge or needed information to help their children. We have all members of the A club and in this together. Since mine son is better, I need to pay it forward to help the new kids on the block. But in reality these parents remind me of what is important in life. Their questions and the phone calls were essential to telling ’s story. They helped me stay focused. These dedicated and frightened parents helped me realize the need for the book, and made me keep going, and gave me the insight to know what I needed to write about. Some days it was difficult when I answer the phone the same questions over and over again, but it is these are the same moms who would do anything to help their children. How can I not answer their questions? And what I would have given way back then when I was in the middle of this nightmare to know someone made it to the other side. We all need hope even if it is only a shred of hope that someday our children can live happy lives. It is these committed parents that make me realize how important it is to get the message to everyone that autism is treatable and our kids can get better. Maybe if you don’t answer posts as often, it will free up some time. That’s what I did, but still monitored what is said here. I get the digest version of the list. That means the posts come in one email rather than a million individual posts. That saves so much time. But the real reason you can’t leave is we would all miss you if you disappeared completely, your sense of humor and biting wit make us laugh when we should be crying. FYI-- I have a wonderful editor who was the sole reason my book was completed. When I only talked about doing it, she actually believed in my writing ability before I did. She encouraged me and made me believe in myself. She has three kids on the spectrum , so she gets it, and is one of the smartest people I know. Let me know if you want me to put you in touch with her.Best,Marcia