Camilla Thurlow, Love Island star and mother of two year old Nora, has given an update on her daughter’s progress following her autism diagnosis. Camilla, 35, and husband Jamie Jewitt, 33, also share daughters Nell, four, and son Brody, 11 months.
The couple recently opened up about Nora’s autism, a move that divided fans between those praising their transparency and others arguing such personal matters should remain private. Undeterred by critics, Camilla continues to keep followers informed about Nora’s journey.
In a recent social media post, she wrote: “She is still non-verbal and so far signing and visual aids haven’t been for her but that’s not to say they never will be.”
She added that they are exploring different communication methods in line with Nora’s development, echoing her vocalisations and eye contact. Camilla also shared some heartwarming details, saying: “She does things like patting arms when cuddling and now has started to reach her arms up to be held. It’s lovely.”
The couple’s decision to publicise Nora’s diagnosis last month sparked debate among fans, with one commenting: “Good for them trying to normalise the conversation about autism, but imagine that girl showing up to high school later knowing every other kid can know deeply personal stuff about her with one Google search.”
Autism is caused by differences in the brain and can lead to issues with social communication and interaction, as well as restricted or repetitive behaviours or interests. Symptoms of ASD can start showing in children as early as 12 to 18 months, sometimes even earlier.
Addressing the diagnosis, she said: “Nora, our little darling. I often wonder what life must be like for you, having to get up and do things that you find hard every day. And not just that, but things that everyone else around you seems to find so easy. For every milestone we are yet to reach, or the ones that may not be for us at all, you just keep going, with a smile on your face and so, so much love in your heart.
“To determinedly keep doing things that are difficult with grace and good humour is something that many of the rest of us have spent a lifetime trying to master. Yet, that strength is already within you, and you go and get it every single day. So of course we will be excited for you in the milestone moments, but we are proud of you always.
“Last month you received your autism diagnosis and we know there are some very real challenges ahead for you, and that we will need to grow as parents to make sure we give you what we hope to give all our children; the tools to navigate spaces that are difficult for you, the empowerment to set boundaries that serve you and above all a happy life with every opportunity to be yourself.
“We see you, always trying to find the sunshine no matter what life brings, and we will be with you every step of the way to make sure it always finds a way through. We are so grateful to be your parents and for the love you and your siblings share, and for everyone who has supported and continues to support Nora and our family.”
Love Island sweethearts Camilla and Jamie Jewitt are still going strong since meeting in the show’s third series in 2017. The couple was close to winning but ended up as runners-up to Amber Davies and Kem Cetinay, eventually saying ‘I do’ in 2021.
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