A mother's journey through autism and loss

Local mom shares insights on parenting, step-parenting and overcoming challenges

Ashley Rogers is pictured with her family: Wrenlen and Garett, her husband; front, Ayzlee, Holden and Zaryna.

Submitted

Published May 4, 2026 - 4:00 p.m.

Ashley Rogers shares her thoughts on being a mother and stepmother.

My thoughts on being a mom may be a bit different than some. I am a mom to two amazing boys, Holden and Wrenlen. I also am a stepmom to two beautiful girls, Zaryna and Ayzlee. Wrenlen also has autism. I have experienced loss as a mother through miscarriages, so in hindsight I wear a lot of different hats.

Being a mom is hard but rewarding. I get to watch my kids thrive in the things they enjoy but also get to watch them learn from their mistakes and grow from them. This applies to all my children. They have all shown me the meaning of never giving up.

Being a mom is all about being patient and kind. It is all about staying strong even if you have to sacrifice, especially with being a parent of a child with autism. I was thrown into the world of autism with no information or background, but I continue to learn so I can advocate and fight for my son to get what he needs.

Being a stepmom has taught me so much about clear communication. When a mom and stepmom can work together, it builds a solid foundation for the child or children. Seeing their parents get along is the greatest gift I can give my two girls. I'm not saying it is always easy, but it is definitely always worth it.

Experiencing loss through miscarriage while having other kids also has been one of the hardest things I have ever done as a mother. As my world was crumbling, I had to make sure my kids never saw the storm that was crashing my whole world. They never knew how sad I was, and now we are able to celebrate the siblings they have lost in a positive way.

My thoughts on being a mom are that, yes, it's the hardest job I have ever done, but I would never change my journey with my kids. They are my absolute world. I love them all so much, and without them I know I would be a completely different person. They say parents are supposed to help shape and teach their kids, but mine have helped shape and teach me just as much, if not more than I have them.