Brittany Cartwright Says Navigating 4-Year-Old Son Cruz’s Autism Diagnosis Has Been ‘Challenging’ and ‘Incredibly Rewarding’

Brittany Cartwright Opens Up About Navigating Son’s Autism Diagnosis

Brittany Cartwright, known for her role on ‘The Valley’, has recently shared the challenges and rewards of coping with her son Cruz’s autism diagnosis. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Cartwright announced her collaboration with Autism Speaks to establish Cruz’s Crew, an initiative aimed at providing support and awareness for families in the autism community. She described the journey of navigating her son’s diagnosis as both demanding and immensely fulfilling, emphasising the importance of early intervention and a supportive community.

The reality star revealed that the initiative had its inaugural event at Chuck E. Cheese, featuring a special sensory-friendly play day that brought joy to Cruz and other families. Through Cruz’s Crew, Cartwright aims to continue advocating for Autism Speaks, ensuring that families worldwide can access inclusive experiences like the one enjoyed at the event. Back in April, Cartwright disclosed to PEOPLE that Cruz had received his autism diagnosis six months earlier, shedding light on the family’s experience and raising awareness on the condition.

Describing Cruz’s developmental milestones, Cartwright shared that he exhibited early signs of communication skills, but later faced regression in speech before his diagnosis. Despite being mostly nonverbal, Cruz sporadically vocalises words like “Mommy,” demonstrating his affection in other ways. Cartwright expressed the bittersweet feeling of not hearing her son say “I love you” while acknowledging his loving nature and the unique ways he shows his affection daily.

Since Cruz’s diagnosis, Cartwright has embraced a new reality, adjusting to life with a child on the autism spectrum. While detailing the challenges of finding relatable support due to the lack of friends with similar experiences nearby, she highlighted the importance of understanding the intricacies of autism. Cruz receives support from a therapeutic companion at preschool and engages in speech and occupational therapy sessions multiple times a week to aid his development.

At home, Cruz has a sensory room equipped with tools like a trampoline and lights to help him regulate sensory stimulation and cope with overwhelming situations through activities like “stimming.” Cartwright affectionately shared some of Cruz’s stimming behaviours, illustrating how she participates in these activities to bond with her son. Despite the adjustments and uncertainties that come with Cruz’s diagnosis, Cartwright remains dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for her son and advocating for autism awareness within the community.

Cartwright’s candid portrayal of her family’s journey with autism resonates with many facing similar challenges, shedding light on the complexities and rewards of raising a child with special needs. Through Cruz’s Crew and her platform, Cartwright continues to inspire and educate others about autism, advocating for inclusivity and understanding in support of families navigating similar paths. As she navigates this uncharted territory, Cartwright’s unwavering love and dedication to Cruz serve as a beacon of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

Cartwright’s story serves as a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and community in overcoming obstacles and embracing the beauty in every child’s unique journey. Her commitment to raising awareness and providing support for children and families affected by autism reflects a deep sense of compassion and empathy, embodying the essence of unconditional love and acceptance. In the ever-evolving landscape of parenting, Cartwright’s unwavering dedication to Cruz’s well-being and growth stands as a reminder that with love and understanding, every child can thrive and shine in their own remarkable way.