Christine McGuinness reveals her 4-year-old twins have autism
The 29-year-old model opens up about her daily life in a touching poem...
Model Christine McGuinness has revealed, for the first time, that her twins have autism.
29-year-old Christine, who shares son Leo and daughter Penelope (as well as baby daughter Felicity) with Take Me Out presenter Paddy McGuinness, wrote about her experience of raising children with autism on Instagram.
In honour of Leo and Penelope’s 4th birthday, she penned a beautiful poem, which read:
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"Today you both turn four, and I celebrate so much more.
"In the last 12 months you have learnt to talk, and you are using flat feet to walk.
"You are conquering your daily challenges, and I’m here to hold your hand, when you’re dealing with sensory overload, the quietest room sounds like a big brass band.
"You excel in mathematics and amateur dramatics, and you amaze me everyday, because you are beautiful inside and out, in an extra special way.
"The meltdowns, the routines and all the planning ahead. The groundhog days, the beige food and the temperamental ‘time for bed’.
"I love you unconditionally, and I will encourage you both to embrace your autism. Because you are totally unique and fantastically awesome.
"All my love always, Mummy."
It’s enough to make you tear up a little bit, isn’t it? ?
Christine’s moving tribute really struck a chord with her 17,000 Instagram fans - many of whom revealed they were also parents to little ones with autism.
"I can honestly say to you after 6 children and 2 of my 6 diagnosed with autism (16 & 10) life does get easier,” one wrote.
“It's hard to start with sometimes impossible but I can honestly say I wouldn't change my boys for the world they are so unique and loving and both amazing in their own ways xxx
“Sending much love to your family ???????? ”
While one follower, a 26-year-old on the spectrum, had this to say:
“Such a beautiful post. It's great that you can share a family moment that may support so many parents.
"I have autism and didn't have a supportive mother, I'm 26 now and see how much the worlds perspective has changed and what resources are available, though it's at a cost and grants from councils and there's not enough to go round just yet.
"Though the main thing a child with autism needs is love from a parent ? ”
Clearly, Christine and Paddy's little ones have just that ?
Images: Instagram/Christine McGuinness
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