The Village That Helps Us Thrive

People say it takes a village to raise a child. I used to think that was just a sweet saying - now I know it’s the absolute truth. Our village is the reason we stay afloat on the hard days and the reason we get to celebrate the beautiful ones. Wyatt is surrounded by people who love him exactly as he is, who want to learn, and who show up. That matters more than anything. 

My mom has been an immense help, especially with swimming and water safety. She’s patient, steady, and endlessly encouraging. This summer, she taught Wyatt to move confidently in the pool- with floaties for now- and I can see his pride growing along with his skills. Watching them together gives me hope and a little peace in a world where water can be scary.

David’s mom is the quiet hero who shows up, no questions asked. She comes over to watch the kids so I can run errands, make phone calls, or just catch my breath. Her presence gives me back the minutes and hours that keep our home running - and her calm energy settles the whole house.

From the very beginning, Wyatt has had a special bond with my sister-in-law, Emily. There’s something about her that draws him in - he’s always felt safe with her. She loves him like her own, and he can feel that. Their connection is effortless, and it means the world to me knowing Wyatt has someone outside of Mom and Dad who just gets him.

Mallory, my best friend, is an intervention specialist - and her compassion runs deep. She not only understands autism, but she embraces Wyatt wholeheartedly. She invites him into everything, making sure he never feels left out. She loves getting him together with her son, and their friendship feels so natural. Mallory’s love and understanding are gifts I don’t take for granted.

Then there’s my husband, who notices when I’m overstimulated and steps in right on time. He doesn’t wait to be asked; he just knows. He’ll take over bedtime, redirect Wyatt, or simply put his hand on my back and say, “I’ve got it.” That kind of partnership is love in action.

We’re lucky - so lucky - to be surrounded by family and friends who love Wyatt fiercely, respect his differences, and genuinely want to learn about autism. They ask questions. They listen. They adapt. That support doesn’t erase the hard parts, but it makes them lighter. It turns loneliness into community and fear into forward motion.

To our village... Grammie, Grandma, Emily, Mallory, and my husband - thank you for being our safe place. Thank you for loving Wyatt so well, for learning with us, and for holding us up when we’re tired. Because of you, we’re not just surviving this journey - we’re thriving.

Kerri