mums united in support
Camera Iconmums united in support Credit: Supplied/Dominique Menegaldo

Shining a light on invisible disability

Rosanna CandlerNorth Coast Times

‘If our child was in a wheelchair, we would receive compassion and support,’ the Floreat resident said.

‘Instead, when I’m out in public and she does something socially inappropriate, I get looked at like I’m a terrible mother. Autism is an invisible disability, it is very misunderstood and families receive little support.’

Over slices of cake and seemingly limitless conversation, the Northern and Western Suburbs Autism Mums’ Group together navigate the complicated journey of parenting a child with autism.

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Mrs Brandis founded the group four years ago with just six members and, despite no advertising, it grew rapidly to more than 80 families.

‘We get together and laugh and talk just like other mums, but our friendships are deeper through a shared understanding of our daily challenges,’ she said.

As well as monthly coffee dates held at members’ homes or local cafes, the group uses an email forum to share information and recourses, a kids’ club, family barbecues and annual mums respite weekend.

For new member Keera Bull, attending her first coffee meeting two months ago was a turning point in coping with her child’s diagnosis.

‘Within five minutes, I felt like I was with family I hadn’t seen for years,’ she said.

‘I am no longer just a mum who has a child with special needs. I’m now part of a network that understands and accepts exactly what is going on in my life.’

Due to the success of the group, the Developmental Disability Council (DDC) of WA and Mrs Brandis have set up new groups in Fremantle, Wattle Grove and Bassendean.

RISE co-ordinator at DDC WA, Mary Butterworth, said parent-to-parent support meetings were valuable.

‘They offer an informal, non-threatening environment for these women, and I foresee more of these groups developing across Perth,’ she said.