I am the mommy of Isaac Padilla. My son brings me the biggest smiles, and always inspires me to be the best version of myself. With Isaac’s humorous personality, our everyday lives frequently shift from stressful and hectic to bright and joyous. 

Sometimes I look back at how this all began. Our journey always makes me emotional. About five years ago, when I took Isaac in for his check up appointment, the pediatrician told me she thought he was autistic. He was only two years old. It was all so scary. I didn’t even know what autism was. Plus, the expression on the doctor’s face sent me into a panic. I thought maybe it was something really bad, like a fatal disease. Unfortunately, she did not take the time to explain what it actually was. I remember thinking this was happening due to his gluten allergy; I thought his health was at risk. Later, I learned this was not the case.

Following the pediatrician’s lead, I scheduled his next steps which included an eight hour evaluation. A First 5 representative spoke with me shortly before the evaluation appointment. She was able to shed some light on what autism was, and provided me with information to read. It was all very surface level, but at least I had the peace of mind that it was not detrimental to his health. 

During the eight hour evaluation, Isaac and I met with an ADA behavior therapist, speech therapist, and psychologist. Numerous assessments took place all at the same time. It truly was a long day that I have not been able to forget. After we wrapped up, they confirmed Isaac was autistic. Thankfully, I had more knowledge so my reaction was not as heavy as it could have been. I knew my husband and I were going to do everything we could to help our son.  

As I continued to learn about autism, I began to understand there was no cure and this was now going to be our new life. I learned there would be changes in his behavior and development, and that various therapies would help. I also learned this being difficult to accept was normal, and that it would take time. 

To this day, I am still learning. It’s still hard to believe at times.There is good that has come out of our journey, Isaac has taught me to become stronger and learn how to help him more. AUTISM has taught me many things. I thank God for sending my son Isaac to me; his existence is a special blessing in our lives.

Issac I promise, your father and I will never stop learning….

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Yaneth Padilla

Yaneth Padilla is a Mom and leader in her community; her seven year old son Isaac is one of her biggest joys. Isaac is part of the special education program in the Oak Grove Unified School District. Yaneth has always had an interest in school involvement and development. Participating at school meetings and events is a way for her to help her son, be in tune with his academic environment, and be able to share what she learns with other parents. Yaneth keeps herself informed on the rights special needs students and adults have; she will not be deprived from resources or discriminated against for being of Latino origin. Yaneth fights for equity for special needs children. Being part of the “Yo Soy Tu Voz” parent group has taught Yaneth many things, but the most important thing is knowing how to advocate for her son Isaac to have access to a fair and equitable education.

Latest posts by Yaneth Padilla (see all)

• Mamá de un Niño Autista Sano y Feliz - April 16, 2021
• Mommy of a Healthy and Happy Autistic Boy - April 15, 2021