Brittany Cartwright, who many know from Bravo’s “Vanderpump Rules,” is opening up like never before about her life as a mom — and the emotional rollercoaster that came with her son Cruz’s autism diagnosis. In her own honest way, Brittany shares the highs, the lows, and everything in between. She talks about how important community support has been, why raising awareness matters so much to her now, and how motherhood has completely changed her perspective. Her story isn’t just about challenges — it’s about hope, love, and learning to see the beauty in a different kind of journey.
Key Takeaways
- Brittany Cartwright is learning and growing through the challenges of motherhood after Cruz’s autism diagnosis.
- Even with tough moments, she’s finding pure joy in the little everyday wins.
- Having strong support from family, friends, and professionals has been a huge help.
- She’s using her platform to bring more awareness to autism and connect with other parents.
- Through it all, she’s reminding herself (and everyone else) that self-care and patience are just as important as celebrating her son’s milestones.
Brittany Cartwright’s Journey Into Motherhood
Embracing New Challenges
Becoming a mom changed Brittany’s world overnight — but Cruz’s autism diagnosis threw her into a whole new reality she didn’t expect. She’s been super honest about what that felt like — the fear, the unknown, the “what now” moments. It wasn’t what she imagined, but Brittany’s found her footing. She’s (Brittany Cartwright) realized that it’s not about a “perfect” path — it’s about showing up for her son, learning as she goes, and celebrating every small step forward. Brittany Cartwright.
Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
It’s not the big milestones that mean the most to Brittany Cartwright anymore — it’s the little, everyday things. Hearing Cruz call her “Mommy” or watching him light up over something simple means the world. Brittany’s learned to slow down, live in the moment, and see the magic in Cruz’s unique way of connecting with the world. And now, she wants other parents to know: there’s so much joy to be found, even when the road looks different than you planned. Brittany Cartwright.
The Importance of Support
If there’s one thing Brittany’s sure about, it’s this — you can’t do it alone.
- She (Brittany Cartwright) leans heavily on her family, her close friends, and a team of amazing professionals.
- Finding other parents who truly understand what she’s going through has been life-changing.
- Getting Cruz started early with therapies and support made a huge difference.
- Even after splitting with Jax Taylor, co-parenting and staying on the same page for Cruz’s sake is a top priority.
Brittany’s been building a little village around Cruz — and it’s made all the difference in helping him grow, thrive, and feel loved.
Understanding Autism Through Brittany’s Eyes
Cruz’s Diagnosis Story
Brittany Cartwright didn’t gloss over how hard it was when she first noticed something different with Cruz. Like a lot of moms, she trusted her gut and started asking questions. The process of getting a diagnosis was emotional — part relief to finally have answers, part heartbreak over what the future might hold. But instead of hiding away, Brittany decided to be open about it. She hopes sharing her story makes even one other parent feel less scared and alone. Brittany Cartwright.
Navigating Early Intervention
Once they had Cruz’s diagnosis, Brittany Cartwright didn’t waste any time. She dove straight into early intervention — speech therapy, occupational therapy, anything that could help him communicate and feel more confident. She’s learning right alongside him, figuring out what works and what doesn’t. It’s a lot of trial and error, a lot of hard days — but also a lot of wins. Her biggest message to other parents? Start early, and trust yourself.
The Impact of Autism on Family Life
Autism doesn’t just change your child’s life — it changes everything around them. Brittany Cartwright has been real about how much family life has shifted. Now, their world looks like:
- Carefully structured routines to help Cruz feel safe
- New ways to communicate when words don’t come easily
- A deeper appreciation for moments that might seem small to others but feel huge to them
Every day isn’t easy, but Brittany’s embracing this new kind of normal with a full heart. And she’s teaching all of us that sometimes, the life you never expected can still be filled with so much love and beauty — just in different, extraordinary ways.
Brittany’s Advocacy for Autism Awareness
(Image: Brittany Cartwright and her son Cruz smiling outdoors together.)
Using Her Platform for Good
Brittany Cartwright has always had a big voice — now she’s using it for something that truly hits home: raising awareness about autism. Since Cruz’s diagnosis, Brittany’s been all-in on helping other families who might feel lost or overwhelmed in those early days. She (Brittany Cartwright) knows how tough it can be when you don’t know where to start — and she’s hoping that by opening up about her journey, she can make it just a little bit easier for someone else. Her mission is simple: use her platform to advocate for the kids and families who need it most.
Connecting with Other Parents
One of the biggest sources of strength for Brittany Cartwright has been finding other parents who are walking a similar path. Sharing stories, advice, even just a few words of encouragement — it’s been a lifeline. She (Brittany Cartwright) talks about how comforting it is to know she’s not alone, and how much she’s learned just by listening to others. It’s about building a community — a place where every parent feels seen, heard, and supported. Brittany’s also shown love and respect for those who’ve been advocating for autism long before her journey began, joining a wider network of support and hope.
Raising Awareness in the Community
Brittany isn’t just speaking up online — she’s showing up in real life, too.
She’s been:
- Participating in local autism awareness walks
- Volunteering at autism-related events
- Using her social media to share resources, tips, and personal experiences
For Brittany, it’s about more than awareness — it’s about breaking down the stigma that still exists around autism. Every story she shares, every event she attends, every post she makes — it’s her way of helping build a more inclusive, compassionate world for Cruz and every child like him.
Emotional Moments in Brittany’s Parenting
Cruz’s Milestones
Every milestone Cruz hits — no matter how big or small — is something Brittany celebrates with her whole heart.
She still remembers how proud she was when Cruz started crawling and walking early. He would light up repeating phrases from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, calling out “Mommy” and “Daddy” with so much excitement. But around the time he turned two, his speech started to slip away. Watching that change happen was heartbreaking for Brittany Cartwright.
Now, every word Cruz works hard to say in speech therapy feels like a small miracle. Hearing a new word, a new sound, a new way he finds to express himself — it fills her with pride and hope. It’s a constant reminder of Cruz’s strength, and of her own, too.
Heartfelt Experiences
Brittany has shared openly that one of the hardest parts is not hearing Cruz say “I love you” — not yet, anyway.
“It’s tough because I’ve never heard him say those words,” Brittany says. “But he shows me he loves me every single day.” Brittany Cartwright
And he really does — through cuddles, smiles, and the way he lights up when they play together. Those small gestures mean everything.
Brittany focuses on the love they share, even when words aren’t there. And honestly? That makes their bond even more powerful.
She’s (Brittany Cartwright) also been super open about Cruz’s ongoing speech therapy journey — and how proud she is of every bit of progress he makes.
The Power of Love and Connection
If there’s one thing Brittany Cartwright believes in more than anything, it’s the power of connection.
She knows that raising a child with autism isn’t about “fixing” anything — it’s about meeting them where they are, and building bridges of love, trust, and understanding.
Through sensory play, dancing to Cruz’s favorite songs, flipping through bright, colorful books — Brittany finds ways to connect with Cruz on his terms, in his world.
That connection fuels everything:
- Her advocacy
- Her patience
- Her unshakable hope for Cruz’s future
The journey hasn’t been easy, but the love between Brittany and Cruz makes every challenge feel worth it.
Here are just a few of their favorite ways to stay close:
- Splashing around with sand or water during sensory play
- Dancing together to Cruz’s favorite tunes
- Snuggling up with simple, colorful storybooks
Coping with the Challenges of Autism
Daily Routines and Adjustments
One of the biggest game-changers for Brittany Cartwright has been creating a daily routine that works for Cruz.
Having a predictable schedule — meals, playtime, therapy, bedtime — helps Cruz feel safe and calm.
But let’s be real — no day goes exactly as planned. Some days are chaotic, some days routines get thrown out the window, and that’s okay too.
Brittany’s learned to roll with it, adjusting as needed while keeping Cruz’s comfort front and center.
Things that help their days run smoother:
- Using visual schedules to show what’s happening next
- Setting timers to make transitions easier
- Sticking to consistent bedtime routines whenever possible
Seeking Professional Help
Brittany Cartwright is also passionate about getting professional help early.
Speech therapy, occupational therapy, developmental specialists — they’ve all played a huge role in Cruz’s progress.
Finding the right team hasn’t always been easy, but Brittany’s advice to other parents is simple: keep pushing, keep advocating, and don’t give up.
There’s help out there — you just have to know where to look.
She often recommends starting points like Autism Speaks and local community resources.
Building a Support Network
If Brittany’s learned anything on this journey, it’s that you can’t do this alone.
It’s easy to feel isolated when your world feels so different from everyone else’s. That’s why finding her “people” — other autism parents who get it — has been such a blessing.
Whether it’s a Facebook group, a local meet-up, or just a few close friends, having a support system changes everything.
It gives you somewhere to turn on the hard days, and someone to celebrate with on the good days.
As Brittany Cartwright puts it:
“It really does take a village — and I’m so grateful for the one we’re building.”
Brittany Cartwright’s Reflections on Motherhood
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Motherhood has been a huge learning curve for Brittany. It’s not just about the sleepless nights or the endless diaper changes; it’s about understanding a whole new level of love and patience. She’s learned to celebrate the small victories and to trust her instincts, even when things get tough. One of the biggest lessons? There’s no such thing as a perfect parent, and that’s okay. It’s about doing your best every day and learning from your mistakes. Brittany has also learned the importance of early intervention and how it can significantly impact a child’s development.
The Role of Self-Care
Brittany admits that self-care often takes a backseat, but she’s realizing how vital it is. You can’t pour from an empty cup, right? She’s trying to incorporate small things into her routine, like taking a few minutes to read, going for a walk, or just having a quiet bath. It’s not always easy, especially with a busy schedule and the demands of motherhood, but she knows that taking care of herself is essential for being the best mom she can be. It’s about finding that balance and not feeling guilty for needing a break. Here are some self-care ideas she’s trying:
- Quick meditation sessions
- Connecting with friends
- Enjoying a favorite hobby
It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day chaos, but taking a step back and focusing on your own well-being can make a world of difference. Even just a few minutes of self-care can help you recharge and approach motherhood with a renewed sense of energy and perspective.
Cherishing Every Moment
Brittany Cartwright is making a conscious effort to cherish every moment, even the challenging ones. She knows that time flies, and before she knows it, Cruz will be all grown up. She’s trying to be present and soak in all the little things, from his giggles to his cuddles. These are the moments that matter most, and she wants to create as many positive memories as possible. She’s also learning to appreciate the unique perspective that Cruz brings to her life and how he’s teaching her to see the world in a whole new way.
The Future for Brittany and Cruz
Hopes and Aspirations
Brittany Cartwrights has big dreams for Cruz. She wants him to be happy, healthy, and to reach his full potential, whatever that may be. She’s focused on providing him with every opportunity to learn and grow, while also making sure he feels loved and supported every step of the way. It’s about finding the right balance and celebrating every little victory. She hopes that by sharing their story, she can inspire other families facing similar challenges. She wants to show them that even with autism, a fulfilling and joyful life is absolutely possible. She’s also hoping to expand her platform to advocate for more resources and support for families with autistic children. It’s a long road, but she’s ready to walk it with Cruz.
Planning for Cruz’s Development
Brittany Cartwrights is actively involved in planning for Cruz’s future development. This includes working closely with therapists, educators, and other specialists to create a tailored plan that addresses his specific needs. They’re exploring different therapies and interventions to help him develop his communication, social, and adaptive skills. It’s a collaborative effort, with everyone working together to ensure Cruz has the best possible support system. She’s also researching different educational options, including specialized schools and programs, to find the right fit for him. It’s all about being proactive and making informed decisions to set him up for success. She’s also looking into long-term care options and financial planning to ensure his future is secure.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Creating a supportive environment is paramount for Cruz’s well-being. This involves not only the immediate family but also extended family, friends, and the community. Brittany is working hard to educate those around her about autism and how they can best support Cruz. This includes providing them with resources, answering their questions, and encouraging them to be patient and understanding. She’s also building a network of other parents of autistic children to share experiences and offer each other support. It’s about creating a village where Cruz feels accepted, loved, and empowered to be himself.
Brittany Cartwright is committed to ensuring Cruz grows up in an environment where he feels safe, understood, and celebrated for who he is. She believes that with the right support and resources, he can achieve anything he sets his mind to. She’s determined to be his biggest advocate and cheerleader every step of the way.
Here are some key elements of their supportive environment:
- Consistent routines and structure
- Clear communication and visual aids
- Positive reinforcement and encouragement
A New Chapter in Advocacy
Brittany Cartwright’s journey into motherhood has taken a turn she never expected, but she’s embracing it with open arms. By sharing her son Cruz’s autism diagnosis, she’s not just telling her story; she’s connecting with other families facing similar challenges. It’s clear that she’s determined to use her experience to help others find their way. As she continues to navigate this path, Brittany remains focused on the love she has for her son. “He is perfect in my eyes,” she says, and that love is what drives her advocacy. For Brittany, this is just the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with hope and support for herself and others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired Brittany to share her son’s autism diagnosis?
Brittany wanted to use her platform to help other families facing similar challenges and to provide support to those who might not know where to start.
How does Brittany feel about being a mom to Cruz?
Brittany Cartwright loves being a mom and believes she was meant to be Cruz’s mother, saying he is perfect just the way he is.
What are some challenges Brittany faces as a parent of a child with autism?
Brittany has to adjust daily routines and often seeks professional help to support Cruz’s development.
How does Brittany advocate for autism awareness?
She uses her social media and public appearances to raise awareness and connect with other parents in similar situations.
What emotional moments has Brittany experienced with Cruz?
Brittany has shared heartfelt experiences, including the joy of Cruz saying ‘mommy,’ which brings her happiness despite his mostly non-verbal communication.
What are Brittany’s hopes for Cruz’s future?
She hopes to create a supportive environment for Cruz’s growth and development, planning for his needs as he gets older.
