Five things I wish I knew before my child was diagnosed:

There’s a moment before the diagnosis…
where you’re trying to make sense of everything without the full picture.

These are the things I wish someone had told me earlier.

1. The label won’t change them.
   But it might change you — how you see them, support them, speak about them.
2. Grief will come.
   Not because you don’t love your child — but because the picture you were holding has to shift. That’s human.
3. Everyone has an opinion.
   Most are unhelpful. Protect your peace and your energy
4. Not every professional is right for your child.
   Learn to trust your gut. You know your kid better than anyone.
5. You’re not meant to do this alone.
   That’s why I’m here. That’s why this page exists. That’s why we talk about the messy parts.

If you’re early in this, we’ve got you.
If you’ve been here longer, thank you for lighting the way.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
There’s more like this inside the Firepit.