The story of Eddie
Who is Eddie?
Eddie is beautiful and inspiring little book character, that I created for my son to help him learn about his autism diagnosis. Eddie is autistic, he likes to know what to expect and feel supported when navigating lifes experiences. I made sure he had lots in common with Tyler, from his lovely blonde hair and dark eyes to the same strengths and interests at the time. The book was such a success in our home, that we went on the publish the book for others. Eddie is now the star of his own show on Sky Kids and we could not be happier that so many children can also enjoy Eddie! Eddie is inspiring many children, helping children feel represented, reassured and understood. Kindness is everything.
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Why Eddie?
I am very proud of my roots! Most people assume authors and creatives are from a middle class background, which is absolutely fine it doesn't mean they haven't any hardhsips or tough experiences. I was born into a working class family and I feel so grateful for that. My Dad used to say 'he didnt have a pot to p*** in' and we really didn't. My eyes were very open from a young age for lots of reasons, hard work, kindness and empathy was and still is a priority.
I live in Suffolk, but my family orginate from Bethnal Green, (hence the absence of a Suffolk accent..) Therefore Eddie is named after my Grandad, Edward Saunders, who passed away shortly after Tyler was born. I am very spiritual and believe in a connection there too.
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I have always had a love for animals and taking care of them, nurtring and helping others is important to me.
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The SEN journey for any parent is a tough one, in a world that has people in it that refuse to listen or need educating, mainstream education being my point. The battles for diagnosis or EHCP's are not for the fainthearted and certainly help you find the grit and determination in you that you never knew you had. I've had some comments but my goodness some of the most outdated ones are within the system! Our children teach us and everyone around them, the importance of kindness and what really matters in life.
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Whether through my work or in person, I hope to add awareness, reassurance and support into children and adults lives and by doing the best I can. Not only is this my passion, it's who I am and always have been from tiny. Our children deserve to thrive by being their unique selves, exploring their strengths and interests happily, never ever feeling less than anyone else.
I believe my Dad was autisitc too, when I wrote My Awesome Autism, the penny dropped, he said 'but there's nothing wrong with me though.' I thought it was sad that adults who are diagnosed later in life, feel they have to justify that, it's purely how the brain works. Dad sadly passed away last year when both of my parents were diagnosed with cancer. He was the funniest and most streetwise person who taught me all I needed to know, to be the Mum his grandkids needed, who share so much of him.
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In lockdown I started some other stories along with my own. I am excited to bring these to life soon. X
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