A Big Step Forward: Maverick’s Official Diagnosis and Our Journey with Therapy

So, let’s backtrack a little. Last week, we received Maverick’s official diagnosis three days before turning 2: Level 3 Autism Spectrum Disorder. It was such a relief. I was worried because Maverick’s interaction with the specialist wasn’t how he normally is. He is usually bouncing off the walls and very unregulated in sensory and emotions. He has been getting better with therapy and I know what to do to calm him. But, I purposefully didn’t so as he was at his most natural state for her to see. He still did things indicative of needing a diagnosis, I was just worried if it would be enough. All the while I forgot important key factors, the extensive paperwork I had filled out with his behaviors, as well as the therapist’s notes, evaluations I submitted, etc. I’ve been waiting for this moment since the first time I voiced my concerns to the pediatrician, noticing the stimming and the regression in some of Maverick’s behaviors. Hearing those words, “Level 3 Autism Spectrum Disorder,” felt like the world lifted off my shoulders. It was the confirmation I had been waiting for and needing. I was stressing and she had recognized it without him needing to be at his worst.

For so long, I had a sense that something wasn’t quite right, but I couldn’t get help without the pediatrician stepping in. Now that we have this diagnosis, I can finally take the next steps to ensure Maverick gets everything he needs. With this official recognition, I can access the services he qualifies for and make sure no stone is left unturned in his care.

But here’s the thing—the relief comes with a new layer of exhaustion. It’s overwhelming to look at all the therapies and services on paper. Maverick will be undergoing four different types of therapy, both at a clinic and through in-home Early Intervention. It’s a lot to juggle, but the support he is receiving has been invaluable. Every single person Maverick works with has been an absolute blessing, and we are all growing together in a way that is benefiting him tremendously.

As a mother, the validation that comes with finally receiving the confirmation you’ve been seeking is indescribable. There is something incredibly reassuring about hearing that what you’ve noticed is real, and that you’re not just overthinking things. It gives you the confidence to move forward, to advocate harder, and to seek out every possible resource for your child.

Moving forward, I want to keep you all updated on how Maverick is doing. I plan to make a more dedicated effort to write entries for every milestone, but for now, I will aim to provide a weekly recap of how things are progressing.

First Weekly Recap:

Since starting his intensive therapy, Maverick has made some remarkable progress. The biggest change? He’s now making a lot more eye contact. This might seem like a small thing, but trust me, it’s a huge win. It’s a sign that he’s more engaged and aware of his surroundings. Maverick is also beginning to understand the “Ready, Set, Go” routine, where he looks at you to see what’s coming next after you say “Go.” He’s not fully at the point of understanding cause and effect just yet, but these small steps forward are so encouraging.

As for his interaction with toys, I’ve seen a shift there as well. Maverick has always loved his sensory bin, but now he’s been going to it more often, throwing the animals out or pulling out his toys and scattering them across the floor repeatedly. He’s also always interacted with his blocks by banging them together or pulling the pieces off of his tower, but now he’s doing this more frequently on his own. This initiation of play is such an important step for him, and I couldn’t be more proud of these small, but meaningful, milestones.

Looking ahead, I’m planning to start potty training in the next couple of weeks. Maverick has been corner pooping, and he’s even been pulling down his diapers or pull-ups to pee. I think he’s beginning to recognize the sensation, so now it’s a matter of figuring out how to help him communicate his needs more effectively. It’s a new challenge, but I’m hopeful that with time, he’ll be ready for this next stage.

This journey is long, but each little victory makes it all worth it. I’m so proud of my sweet boy, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next.