Cape Flats mother publishes book on raising neurodiverse son after two-decade struggle

After nearly 20 years of navigating the challenges of raising a neurodiverse child, Dorothy Pietersen has turned her story into a book aimed at inspiring and guiding other families.

Her debut book, The Beauty in Being Different, was officially launched at the Christian Evangelical Church of God in Grassy Park, on November 29, with all proceeds going toward a foundation Ms Pietersen, a Mitchell’s Plain resident, established to support families of children with special needs and to invest in the community. 

The book chronicles her journey supporting her 24-year-old son, Jean Pietersen - born in 2001 and diagnosed on the autism spectrum - through school, higher education, and the ongoing struggle to find employment, highlighting both the hardships and the hope that have shaped their lives.

Ms Pietersen’s son attended Northwood Primary in Woodlands and later Spine Road High School in Mitchell’s Plain, before enrolling at a private university in Mowbray.

While he is intelligent, Ms Pietersen said he continues to face difficulties securing work.

“He went for interviews but was unsuccessful because he is different,” she said.

She said when her son was diagnosed, public awareness about autism was limited.

“The doctors were the only ones who knew about it,” Ms Pietersen said.

“I had to teach myself how best to support him.” This experience inspired her to write the book to help other parents, caregivers, and family members navigate similar challenges. “My son is different, but there is beauty in everyone,” she said.

The book became a reality this year with the support of Christo Williams, founder of Legacy Ink Publishing Coaches, in Ottery.

Mr Williams, whose company guides individuals through the publishing process, said he was drawn to Ms Pietersen’s story of resilience and advocacy.

“Dorothy knocked on doors and broke barriers to ensure her son got the help he needed,” he said.

“Her story is a roadmap for families raising children on the autistic spectrum or who are neurodiverse.”

Mr Williams added that the project highlighted the power of storytelling as a tool for healing and advocacy. “Whoever holds the pen controls the narrative,” he said.

“Dorothy took control of her story and spoke her truth, revisiting both the challenges and the triumphs to inspire others.”

Ms Pietersen described the publication as a message of hope, showing that perseverance, advocacy, and love can help families navigate even the most difficult journeys.

For more information about the book and the foundation, contact Ms Pietersen at 062 742 6043.