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Understanding Norah: A Journey from “Nowhere to Turn” to Support

19 March 2026

A mum shares how a better understanding of ADHD and Autism helped her support her daughter and become a better parent.

Understanding Norah: A Journey from “Nowhere to Turn” to Support

19 March 2026

A mum shares how a better understanding of ADHD and Autism helped her support her daughter and become a better parent.

Norah and mum building a snowman in their garden

Leah-Toni shares how our Library and Parent Guides gave her a better understanding of ADHD and Autism which has helped her support her daughter.

“Norah is 7 years old and has ADHD, Autism, and ODD. She loves being on the go! She enjoys gymnastics, dance, and any opportunity to perform.

However, Norah struggles to switch off, concentrate, and follow social norms. She is very bright and switched on, which means she has lots of questions – but she also faces significant challenges with attention, focus, friendships, and social situations. We deal with huge meltdowns, as well as sensory, food, and sleep issues. Norah does not sleep all night and takes medication for this.

Our family is just me and Norah. As a single mum, it is hard to juggle it all. I am Norah’s safe space, but that can take its toll. She is unaware of dangers and needs support throughout the day.

I reached out to Cerebra because I had nowhere else to turn. We used the library, parent guides and factsheets. We received friendly support and a chat, alongside books and sensory items.

The support helped us both understand her condition and needs more; Norah was even able to understand why she feels ‘different.’ It has led to a better understanding for us both. I am now able to support Norah better and be a better parent.

Thank you for helping us in such a complicated, unknown time.”

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