The following story is based on an interview with Niveah’s mother and has been edited for clarity and length.
When Niveah was diagnosed with level 3 autism at just one year old, her mother, Shardae, was suddenly faced with a future she did not yet understand.
“At first, I didn’t fully understand what that meant or what our journey would look like,” she said.
Like many parents receiving an autism diagnosis for their child, she had questions, fears, and uncertainty. But she also knew one thing immediately: she would do whatever it took to support her daughter.
“As a mother, I quickly adjusted,” she shared. “I knew I had to learn, grow, and do whatever it took to support her and meet her needs.”
Niveah is one of six children and the youngest, sharing a twin sibling. In a busy household full of love, laughter, and energy, life is rarely quiet. Yet within that full and active home, Niveah’s family has built a world centered around patience, routine, and understanding.
Learning a New Kind of Routine
For families raising a child with autism, daily life often looks different than what others might expect. Every day is shaped by routines, sensory needs, communication styles, and finding the right ways to help a child feel safe and supported.
For Niveah, structure is important. Her mother says their days revolve around creating a calm environment where she can thrive.
“Daily life for our family looks a little different,” she explained, “but it’s filled with patience, structure, and understanding.”
Like many children with level 3 autism, Niveah sometimes struggles to express what she is feeling. When she becomes overwhelmed or frustrated, those emotions can turn into meltdowns.
“There are moments when Niveah has difficulty expressing her feelings, which can lead to frustration or meltdowns,” her mother said.
Instead of reacting with frustration, she has learned to respond with calmness and compassion.
“In those moments, I’ve learned to stay calm, be patient, and help her regulate in ways that work best for her.”
Becoming Her Voice
One of the hardest parts of raising a child with autism is not always the diagnosis itself. Often, it is helping the world understand your child.
For Niveah’s mother, one of the greatest challenges has been communication and advocating for her daughter in a world that does not always understand autism.
“As a parent, it can be hard dealing with the stares or lack of understanding from others, especially in public,” she said.
Many parents of children with autism know this feeling all too well. The curious looks, the judgment, the assumptions. But over time, Niveah’s mother has become stronger and more confident in standing up for her daughter.
“I’ve learned to advocate for my daughter and be her voice when she can’t speak for herself.”
That advocacy has meant learning how to navigate therapies, school systems, specialists, and community resources. It has meant asking questions, doing research, and making sure Niveah has access to everything she needs to succeed.
“I’ve had to learn how to navigate resources, therapies, and support systems to make sure she is getting everything she needs to grow and thrive.”
The Power of Support and Understanding
No parent should have to navigate autism alone. Throughout her journey, Niveah’s mother says the biggest difference has come from support, patience, and education.
“What has made the biggest difference in our journey is support, patience, and education,” she said.
She credits teachers and caregivers who have truly taken the time to understand Niveah and care for her.
“Having teachers and caregivers who truly understand her and care for her like their own has meant everything to me.”
As she has learned more about autism, she has also discovered her own strength.
“Learning more about autism and how to support Niveah has helped me become a stronger parent and advocate.”
A Different Journey, But a Beautiful One
Autism Acceptance Month is a reminder that every child deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated exactly as they are. For Niveah’s mother, that means recognizing every victory, every milestone, and every part of who her daughter is.
“Most importantly, loving her for exactly who she is and celebrating her progress, no matter how big or small, has made all the difference.”
Through this journey, Niveah has taught her mother more than she ever expected.
“Niveah has taught me strength, patience, and unconditional love in ways I never imagined,” she said.
Their story is not always easy. There are hard days, long days, and uncertain moments. But there is also love, resilience, and joy.
“Our journey may not be easy, but it is ours,” her mother said, “and I wouldn’t change who she is for anything.”
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If your child has autism or special needs and your family needs help accessing medical supplies, support services, or other resources, you are not alone. UroStat Healthcare is proud to support families by helping provide pediatric incontinence supplies and other essentials through insurance. Contact UroStat today to learn how we can help your family get the care and support your child deserves.