Every day we live with the direct effects of autism. The challenges are great and require a constant devotion from each family member, with some days requiring more energy than others. Mia has blessed us with so many wonderful moments but has changed the way we are able to approach events that others are able to do on a regular basis. Autism affects us as a family mentally, physically, emotional and financially. One of the things that limits us the most is the fear of inconveniencing others, of being a spectacle, and of wasting time/money/energy on activities and events that Mia should be able to enjoy, but can't. It always seems to be a crap-shoot - will Mia enjoy it or will a meltdown have us fleeing the second the activity begins? This fear, and the financial expenses associated with treating and accommodating Mia's disabilities on a day-to-day basis, mean that I have never taken a vacation with Mia. Autism on the Seas is a non-profit company that allows families like ours to experience a vacation that, at one time, we would have imagined to be impossible. They arrange specific special needs accommodations with the cruise lines and they provide professionally qualified staff to assist us with expedited port check-in, meal assistance, pool time supervision, beach excursions, respite (time for Mia to be well cared for while I can relax without worrying about me), and many other perks and assistance. Autism on the Seas also provides pre-cruise professional consultation and valuable resources, including connecting with other families for support. I truly believe this is the best - and only - way for us to trial Mia (and her Autism/Medical-related needs) on traveling. Eventually, we would like to get to a point where we can bring Mia on mainstream trips with non-specialized travel arrangements. However, Autism on the Seas will allow us to travel with Mia's current medical needs (pureed diet, 1:1 support worker, contained environment, etc.). While we hope Mia will make significant improvements in the year ahead (as she embarks in September on her first year of school), Autism on the Seas provides a service that would allow us to travel immediately, even with Mia's current health challenges. This is a huge relief for me and allows me to actually be able to enjoy the trip planning, rather than being anxious of what's to come!
