So, we should have one of these threads. I've found that forums of similar types (that is ones that have to deal with similar levels of effort for daily activities that are small close communities) have these threads and I think we really need one here.

So here's a thread to brag about yourself, or your children, about things that you (or they) have achieved. We are a group who have challenges. Many, if not most, of us are disabled. SPD is an impairment, and this is something that matters. This means that the things that are achievements aren't necessarily things that are stereotypical achievements or things that others would think twice about. Mention if you've found a job or graduated from college, but simply going to the grocery store on your own for the first time can be just as much of an achievement here.

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Anyways, to start this off.

Today marks a week that I've not had a meltdown. This is huge. I have meds that are helping prevent them (its a known useful "side effect" in at least some autistic people), i have been losing control some, but I've not had a full meltdown for a week. This is the first time I've gone a full week since 2008.

I'll likely break soon. I'll not suddenly go from having near daily meltdowns to none, even with meds that prevent them, but even with medication helping going from near daily to a week without is huge for me.

I am getting much better at noticing when something is about to cause me a problem in time to do something about it before it shuts me down.

I am also getting more of a sensory cushion before I am triggered. This past year marks the first year where I have gotten less sensitive in some senses instead of much more sensitive. Sadly, I think this is mostly due to no longer having a cat. I am allergic to cats, but I couldn't bear to part with the one I had. Since she left, my sensory problems have slowly improved and my daily bloody noses stopped.

My health in general has improved so much that my husband and I are now licensed to be Foster Parents. We are currently waiting for the call to help raise a child. A few years ago, this would have been impossible. Now I am confident we can take on this additional responsibility.

I want to tell you how proud of my 5yr old I am,
He came down stairs this morning, having washed himself and got himself dressed and managed to do up his buttons on his polo shirt. He has problems with all of these usually but today he did them all on his own. He also came home from school and asked could he Hoover my car, he made a really good job too. So there are silver linings to be cherished just cos they are not big things. I am a very happy mum cos in school he never manages to get any awards like the other kids.