Reader: Stephanie Rochester's autism fears are understandable even though she did wrong thing

Stephanie Rochester, the Superior mom who allegedly smothered her child due to autism fears, is back in the news; her husband is suing her for wrongful death. This week, one reader of our June 2010 post about this tragedy admits that she can relate to Rochester's anxiety, though not her...

By Michael Roberts

February 9, 2011

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Stephanie Rochester, the Superior mom who allegedly smothered her child due to autism fears, is back in the news; her husband is suing her for wrongful death. This week, one reader of our June 2010 post about this tragedy admits that she can relate to Rochester's anxiety, though not her actions -- because she's the parent of an autistic child.

Deni writes:

My son has severe autism. He doesn't speak but we just watched a movie, had popcorn and Ice cream and enjoyed our evening. No, life has not been easy but we all take chances everyday. I had a child, he has a severe disability and we are making the best of it. He's a bigger heart than any of us. You have to remember that it's hard on the family but it's harder for your child. He's taught us all what is "real" in life. Including what love really is all about. I feel sorry for this family and even though I know she did the wrong thing, she's scared. It's a scary situation but I'm glad I got through it.

For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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