I remember when we were first starting to wonder about Maggie. That summer that she regressed and was so often “in her own little world.” The big scary ‘A’ word was floated about. It seemed like it could fit. Except for the giant life raft that I clung to like it was the last boat in the ocean – “She can’t have autism – she’s too affectionate!!”
I was so misinformed. And in denial. And also so incredibly lucky.
Lucky to have the sweetest, huggiest, smiliest girl on the planet. Full of affection.
Maggie is quick to jump in our laps for a cuddle, always lets me smother her with kisses, and has the very best smiles. Yes, some of her cuddles and squeezes can be attributed to sensory-seeking behaviour, and she is famous for her “backwards hugs” in which she turns her back to you and lets you hug her, after we ask for a hug. But there is no question in my mind that she shows affection.
