“I Felt Like A Failure” – Melanie Sykes Talks About Son’s Autism Diagnosis

Melanie Sykes has opened up this week about dealing with the diagnosis of her son’s autism. The popular presenter revealed at London Autism Show that she felt like she had failed as a mother when her son Valentino (Tino) was diagnosed eight years ago. She made a powerful speech in London this week. “That was the first time I heard it and I didn’t really know what it was,” she said according to The Sun. “If I can’t accept he’s got autism, I can’t help him change,” she reportedly continued.

Cuddles on the Heath #tino #autismmum pic.twitter.com/EY0IabSQIO

— Melanie Sykes (@MsMelanieSykes) May 30, 2015

Melanie also read out parts of a diary that she had written in 2007. “I want to throw the towel in and wave a white flag. I desperately want to fold in my hand of cards." Melanie revealed how difficult it was to cope. “I’ve had enough – children, marriage, life, work, the lot. It’s too hard to handle and I can’t cope. “I could cry until I dissolve, never to be seen again. I am so sick of failure that I feel, and overwhelmed by the future.”