Dear Anika,

This is us, your soon to be parents.

I will be your Mom my name is Kokie.

I will be your Dad my name is Anthony.

We are going to be your parents!

We did not realize how important our lives are going to be until you and your sisters came along.

This is when our journey begins on

"How to love you"

This is you and your siblings.

Your name is Anika.

Your big sister Mireille loves Taekwando and cares about you a whole lot.

Your little sister Sky is very playful and funny. She would not leave you alone and she likes to kiss you.

They were born to love you and be there for you.

....??

On January 2019, Lola/Grandma went home to the Philippines. Mama was home for a couple of weeks and saw that you were struggling to communicate and play. You were also not giving Mommy a lot of eye contact.

Mommy and Daddy did some research and made some phone calls to find the help that you need.

Children's Hospital LA

To get more answers, we went to CHLA on April 24, 2019 and they did some tests and observations on you. Your doctor's name was Dr. Hilary Adams.

Finally, on May 15, 2019 you were diagnosed with Autism. You were just 2 years old.

Mommy and Daddy stood strong that day, we knew that if we were to feel worried and sad it will not help you. We gave you a big hug and told you

"Anika, everything's going to be okay"

So what is Autism?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 59 children in the United States today.

It may sound like a lot, but you are a special unique kid. Au-some. Unique. Beautiful just the way you are Anika.

Regional Center

Pomona SGV

After your diagnosis, Regional Center helped you with your services and the coordinator Ms. Edge / Ms. Christine they were wonderful.

You went to Casa Colina every Tuesday and Thursday and went to class with a few other kids just like you. You would do circle time and sing with other kids and have some Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy. Your teachers were Ms. Mara, Ms. Michelle, Ms. Christine and a lot more.

You learned a lot because of them.