Mum left amazed by partner's list of 'honest' advantages to having a child with autism

A mother of a non-verbal child with autism has opened up about voicing her ongoing worries over his future - and the overwhelming response she got from her partner.

One night after dinner, Ellie Whetzel - who describes herself as 'fiercely protective' of her four-year-old son Leo - confided in her partner Andy how hard it was sometimes and that she has 'so many questions that have yet to be unanswered for Leo'. But Andy's response gave the exhausted mum hope and strength.

Taking to Facebook, she shared a post explaining why his words had proved to be so reassuring.

https://www.facebook.com/ellie.fadden/posts/10155413347908429?pnref=story

'"It always amazes me, how even today there is still so much negativity surrounding autism," he said,' Ellie wrote.

'"One of the best things about Leo is how genuine he is. When he's happy, he lets you know. When he's upset, he lets you know. His emotions are pure and there is no pretence."'

'"The sad part is that people will say that this is abnormal. When really, this is how more people should be."'

https://www.facebook.com/ellie.fadden/posts/10155402625573429?pnref=story

Continuing, Andy said: '"Somewhere along the way someone said, Leo is going to be different. We're going to wire him differently."'

'"Not everyone will understand him, but that's okay. And even if he only touches these two people's lives, he will have made a difference."'

Writing on her Facebook post, Ellie said: 'tears quietly streaming down my face, I allowed my husband's beautiful message to seep in.'

Read more: Former EastEnders actress Kacey Ainsworth quit acting after her son was diagnosed with autism

Talking to HuffPost UK, Ellie admitted that until she met Andy she did not think it would be possible to find someone who could develop such a strong bond with her son.

'I had resigned myself to the fact I may never find a partner who would or could possibly recognise my boy's unique gifts,' she said.

'Yet, when Andy entered our lives... I had not only found a loving and supportive partner... but Leo found his dad.'