The creator of the blog and Facebook page Finding Cooper's Voice (655k followers) shares her raw, honest, and inspiring journey of raising a child with severe autism and coming into her own as a mother.
This is sure to become an essential book for parents of children with autism and other special needs.
When Kate Swenson's son Cooper was diagnosed with severe, nonverbal autism, her world stopped. She had always dreamed of having the perfect family life. She hadn't signed up for life as a mother raising a child with a disability.
At first, Kate experienced the grief of broken dreams. Then she felt the frustration and exhaustion of having to fight for your child in a world that is stacked against them. But through hard work, resilience and personal growth, she would come to learn that Cooper wasn't the one who needed to change. She was. And it was this transformation that led Kate to acceptance-and ultimately joy. In Forever Boy, Kate shares her inspiring journey with honesty and compassion, offering solace and hope to others on this path and illuminating the strength and perseverance of mothers.
'Until the late twentieth century, autism was hidden in plain sight. Now it's a public health priority and focus of extensive research. However, it remains a black box. While we wait for answers, extraordinary people like Kate Swenson, through their dedicated and resourceful efforts have taken it upon themselves to create a nurturing environment in which children like Cooper can grow and thrive. Forever Boy will be an inspiration to all who face the challenge of caring for special needs children.'
**-**Dr. Jeffrey A. Lieberman, Lawrence C. Kolb Professor and Chairman of Psychiatry, Columbia University
