Who am I? - Follow the Dots | Elizabeth Griffin

ELIZABETH GRIFFIN

A mom like you, taking it one day at a time.

Who is Elizabeth Griffin?

First, I’m a woman with a big God who carries me through this roller coaster of a life by consistently pouring His grace into it.

I’m a writer, editor, teacher, speaker, and personal coach.

I’m Jay’s wife, Taylor and Zachary’s mother, and Cassidy’s mother-in-law.

I’m a carrier of fragile X syndrome, which is why our second son, Zack, has fragile X syndrome and autism. This website is full of stories about him and the impact his life has on all of us. He teaches me so much, and I don’t know anyone who embodies more love and joy than he does. I hope my stories give you hope, support you in the trenches, let you know you’re not alone, and occasionally give you a chuckle.

I also write “contemplations” on life and God and whatever else fancies me. I hope these inspire and encourage you.

Thanks for reading!

My precious baby grinning from ear to ear

I was an anxious mess at this stage of Zack’s life because I couldn’t figure out why he was still holding on to infantile reflexes at one year old (note the clenched fists held high). But there’s no doubt that he was a cutie pie!

Kindergarten on the short bus

After a mixed experience in developmental preschool, Zack hit the jackpot with Teacher Norma in kindergarten.

She worked wonders with our boy. The charming smile in this picture gives no indication of the erratic emotions our little guy experienced.

From laughing hysterically one minute to crying uncontrollably the next, life was all about trying to keep him from being over-stimulated.

Held in place by Dad

At age 7, Zack was finally (mostly) potty-trained during the day. This photo with his dad was a rare moment when he actually sat still and quiet.

To read more about Zack from birth to age 7, buy the book here

Laughing at age 12

Not seen in this photo is Taylor, Zack’s brother, who was tickling him to make him laugh. Also not seen is the train we were riding, which was meant to be a fun outing but caused Zack to yell and cover his ears whenever the whistle blew.

Are we having fun yet?

My gorgeous teenager

This is one of my favorite photos of Zack, showing his incredible eyes—aquamarine swirled with varying shades of blue, reminiscent of the Mediterranean Sea.

As his high school teacher once said, “In another dimension, Zack would be the quintessential Big Man on Campus.”

High School graduation

Zack’s high school graduation ceremony with his special education class was A BIG DEAL.

Jay and I were amazed at how he stepped up to the plate, even choosing to wear a button-down shirt for the very first time. He looked sharp, and he knew it!

Need help?

Has your child recently been diagnosed with a developmental disability or autism?

If so, you may feel your world is shattered, and you may have no idea what to do or where to go for help. You may wish you could stop what is happening, and you may be afraid of what the future holds.

I understand. I felt the same when Zack was diagnosed with fragile X syndrome and autism.

But there is hope, and there are many people ready to walk this road with you. I am one of them.