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Brittany Cartwright's Son, Cruz, Diagnosed with Autism
Brittany Cartwright Shares Son Cruz's Autism Diagnosis
Brittany Cartwright, star of Bravo's *The Valley*, has revealed that her three-year-old son, Cruz, has been diagnosed with autism. The diagnosis, received last fall, followed a period of speech regression in Cruz, who previously met developmental milestones ahead of schedule. Cartwright shared the news in an interview with PEOPLE, detailing Cruz's journey and her family's experience.
Initially, Cruz displayed typical early development, crawling and walking early and exhibiting verbal skills, including saying "Mommy," "Daddy," and even phrases from *Mickey Mouse Clubhouse*. However, around the age of two, his speech began to regress, eventually leading to near-total nonverbally. Despite this, Cartwright emphasizes that Cruz is a loving and expressive child who communicates his needs and affection through nonverbal cues. She described him as "so loving" and "such a mommy's boy," noting that while he doesn't verbally say "I love you," he shows his love daily.
Cartwright and her ex-husband, Jax Taylor, immediately sought professional help, enrolling Cruz in speech and occupational therapy. This journey was documented in the first season of *The Valley*. While they anticipated the autism diagnosis, hearing it from his developmental pediatrician made the reality of the situation more profound. Cartwright acknowledges that their lives will change, but she expresses unwavering love and support, viewing herself as uniquely suited to be Cruz's mother.
To support Cruz's development, Cartwright has created a sensory room at their Los Angeles home, in addition to providing a swing set and pool in their backyard. Cruz continues speech and occupational therapy multiple times a week and has a therapeutic companion who accompanies him to preschool to aid in social skills development. Cartwright prioritizes Cruz's therapy and educational opportunities, ensuring he never misses sessions, with support from her nanny and Taylor. She draws inspiration from Netflix's *Love on the Spectrum*, emphasizing the positive outlook and joyful lives depicted in the series.
Cartwright's focus is on early intervention, providing Cruz with the best possible opportunities for growth and happiness. She is committed to advocating for other parents navigating similar challenges, highlighting that autism doesn't limit potential and emphasizing Cruz's vibrant perspective. The second season of *The Valley*, premiering April 15th on Bravo, will further showcase their family's journey. Cartwright also reflects on her recent divorce from Taylor, stating that her son is her primary motivation for staying strong and prioritizing her well-being.
Brittany Cartwright, star of Bravo's *The Valley*, has revealed that her three-year-old son, Cruz, has been diagnosed with autism. The diagnosis, received last fall, followed a period of speech regression in Cruz, who previously met developmental milestones ahead of schedule. Cartwright shared the news in an interview with PEOPLE, detailing Cruz's journey and her family's experience.
Initially, Cruz displayed typical early development, crawling and walking early and exhibiting verbal skills, including saying "Mommy," "Daddy," and even phrases from *Mickey Mouse Clubhouse*. However, around the age of two, his speech began to regress, eventually leading to near-total nonverbally. Despite this, Cartwright emphasizes that Cruz is a loving and expressive child who communicates his needs and affection through nonverbal cues. She described him as "so loving" and "such a mommy's boy," noting that while he doesn't verbally say "I love you," he shows his love daily.
Cartwright and her ex-husband, Jax Taylor, immediately sought professional help, enrolling Cruz in speech and occupational therapy. This journey was documented in the first season of *The Valley*. While they anticipated the autism diagnosis, hearing it from his developmental pediatrician made the reality of the situation more profound. Cartwright acknowledges that their lives will change, but she expresses unwavering love and support, viewing herself as uniquely suited to be Cruz's mother.
To support Cruz's development, Cartwright has created a sensory room at their Los Angeles home, in addition to providing a swing set and pool in their backyard. Cruz continues speech and occupational therapy multiple times a week and has a therapeutic companion who accompanies him to preschool to aid in social skills development. Cartwright prioritizes Cruz's therapy and educational opportunities, ensuring he never misses sessions, with support from her nanny and Taylor. She draws inspiration from Netflix's *Love on the Spectrum*, emphasizing the positive outlook and joyful lives depicted in the series.
Cartwright's focus is on early intervention, providing Cruz with the best possible opportunities for growth and happiness. She is committed to advocating for other parents navigating similar challenges, highlighting that autism doesn't limit potential and emphasizing Cruz's vibrant perspective. The second season of *The Valley*, premiering April 15th on Bravo, will further showcase their family's journey. Cartwright also reflects on her recent divorce from Taylor, stating that her son is her primary motivation for staying strong and prioritizing her well-being.
