In a talk for her endorsement in 2016, Kris Aquino opened up about raising a child with special needs. Her eldest son, Josh Aquino, was born with autism and Kris confided that it is anything but easy.
At first, Kris recounts, they were even in denial about Josh's condition.
"As a family, I think the most important thing is that you talk about it," said Kris, according to PEP. "We used to sweep it under the rug. Until we all got so used to it already, and it became a part of our lives."
Kris Aquino on acceptance
The mom of two also stressed the importance of getting over the "denial phase" so your child grows up surrounded with love.
"Kailangan talaga as a family, you let go of that, because you really have to accept. You also have to accept that there will be so many limitations," confided Kris.
"But as long as you shower your child with love... Ikaw rin as a mom give yourself some love also, kasi mahirap."
And, in the age of social media, it becomes all the more difficult to shield kids with special needs from bullying and ignorance. It's especially challenging for a public persona such as Kris.
"As far as the family is concerned, it’s tough. The judgment is tough," lamented Kris, who says online bashing still hurts her. "Lalo na sa amin sa pulitika. I mean, those memes? They hurt."
Next page: What gives her comfort and security despite the negativity?
Kris Aquino thankful for having both Josh and Bimby
But one thing that helped her is something her sister, Viel, told her. "She said: Haven’t you realized that every time someone attacks Josh, you get so many blessings because that is an innocent child?' So, God levels the playing field," recalls Kris.
Despite this, Kris remains grateful that her financial stability affords her the ability to provide the best care possible for Josh. A total of seven specialists work with Josh; these professionals managed to help Kris raise Josh Aquino "healthy, fit, and communicative."
"Inaamin ko naman, e. Sobra akong na-bless financially na hindi ko na fear kung ano ang mangyayari sa kanya kapag wala ako dito," shared Kris.
Knowing that Josh Aquino's younger brother, Bimby, will be there to care for him as they grow older also grants Kris more peace of mind.
"Parang bina-balance ni God in that sense," said Kris. "Because I think Bimb came into my life because I needed someone that I am sure can be there for Kuya come what may."
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