Kiwi mummy new to ASD

Hi everyone

Feeling quite emotional right now as our only son (3 yrs) has just been diagnosed with autism.  

We have struggled with some difficult behaviours for a long time, namely lack of language and extraordinary tantrums. So I suppose a diagnosis is a good thing because we can now move this forward and get him some langauge therapy.

He has some totally endearing traits as a result of his ASD too, but which I am now seeing in a new light. I feel like there is suddenly a distinction to be made between what's "him" and what's the "condition". I feel like I don't know him so well anymore. Am I crazy for thinking this way? How do I stop doing that?

Logically, I realise ASD is just a classification, a brain type, and nothing has changed about my son. But at the same time we have opened the doors to a condition of which I know little, and I am overwhelmed by what that means and what is to come.

I'm hoping this forum will be a good source of support, especially from other parents who have struggled with the language difficulties and those very intense tantrums.

Seeking your valuable insights for a confused and scared parent.

- MeeMoo (as named by our son!)