25/07/2024
**Dear Single Mothers of Autistic Children,**
I write to you from Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto on this cold Thursday night, filled with thoughts and emotions. My son is here, awaiting a procedure that will help him with his weak muscles, reduce his saliva, and improve his speech clarity. As I sit here, I am reminded of the incredible journey we are on as mothers of autistic children. It is a journey filled with challenges, but also immense love and rewarding moments.
Being a single mother to an autistic child is not easy. The countless hospital visits, the appointments, the follow-ups—it all demands a strength that we sometimes don't know we have until we need it. The sleepless nights, the worry, the constant vigilance—it can be overwhelming. But amidst all this, we find moments of profound love and connection with our children that make everything worthwhile.
Tonight, I am filled with gratitude for the warmth and cleanliness of this public hospital. The wards are clean and inviting, and they even provide small beds for mothers to sleep beside their children. My son prefers to sleep with me rather than in his cot, and I find comfort in having him close, especially during these challenging times.
As I sit with him, other children come to me for comfort, and I embrace them, offering love and warmth. It is a blessing to be able to provide a sense of security to these little ones, even if only for a moment. This experience reminds me of the incredible power of love and the difference it makes in our children's lives.
To all the mothers out there, whether you are at home or in a hospital room, I know your heart is with your child. The love you give, the sacrifices you make, and the strength you show every day are nothing short of heroic. Being a mother is hard, and being a mother to an autistic child is even harder. But it is also incredibly rewarding. The love we share with our children is pure and profound, and it gives us the strength to keep going, no matter how tough things get.
Remember to ask for help when you need it. Talk to other mothers, share your experiences, and support one another. We are all in this together, and there is strength in our community. Never forget that you are doing an amazing job, and your love and dedication are the greatest gifts you can give your child.
Stay strong, and know that you are not alone. We are all walking this path together, and together, we can overcome any obstacle.
With love and solidarity,
Nolitha Nkosi
