Paddy and Christine McGuinness’ youngest child has been diagnosed with autism – three years after their twins.
The 31-year-old model took to Instagram to reveal her and the ‘Top Gear’ presenter’s three-year-old daughter Felicity was recently diagnosed with the lifelong developmental disability – which affects how people perceive the world and interact with others – just like their six-year-old twins Leo and Penelope.
She wrote: "Recently our youngest daughter Felicity was also diagnosed with autism, three years after our twins Leo and Penelope were diagnosed.
Going through this journey again does still bring some heartache knowing all three children will face challenges and difficulties that others won’t. But ultimately I feel confident as a family we are in a much stronger place, we are able to use our experience and knowledge as power helping us to feel well prepared. We are here to love and support our three extra special children and I thank god every day these babies are mine. Proudest mummy #Autism #AutismAwareness #3superstars #KnowledgeIsPower (sic)"
Christine also shared a picture of an emotional message, which read: "I am so proud to be your mummy, you are everything to me.
"All three of you are thriving with ASD [Autistic Spectrum Disorder]. I will never try and change you, you are perfect as you are.
"Mummy is going to change the world to understand her superstars.
"You are sensitive, you are strong, and you have such a special bond.
"You are funny and talented, cheeky and sweet, you all love your toys to be kept extra neat.
"Shining brighter than the stars above. You are special, so wanted and oh so loved.
"Leo, Penelope and Felicity, you are unaware of the positive impact you have, even on the tough days you even make me laugh.
"My trio, my babies, my fabulous three. Together we are a strong, proud, unique family.
"All my love always, Mummy."
Christine’s post comes just weeks after she opened up about the "awful" aftermath of Christmas with her children.
She wrote: "Walking away from Christmas … Last week I told how proud I was to have a Christmas tree up at home, I am still very proud that my children coped well over Christmas as they struggle so much with sensory overload, anxiety, they become easily overwhelmed. But, I wasn’t ready for the aftermath following Christmas Day, it has has been awful. I think I prepared them so much for Christmas Day, I didn’t prepare them for it to end … I know many of you with Autistic children will understand, I’m still learning everyday and next year will be better again. So now, all evidence of Christmas has gone from our home, I find the best way to help my children is to get them involved and show them visually. We took the tree down together and explained ‘Christmas has finished’ .. today seems calmer … I’m just hoping for the best, patiently waiting for normal routine to come back! (sic)"
Paddy and Christine McGuinness’ youngest child diagnosed with autism
