From a cross-country move and rekindled friendships, Jacqueline Laurita has experienced many big changes over the past several years. But one thing that hasn’t changed is her role as a proud, devoted mom.
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On Friday, April 18, The Real Housewives of New Jersey alum returned to Instagram to share another sweet look at her family life. Jacqueline posted a video of her recent road trip with Nicholas Laurita, the 15-year-old son she shares with husband Chris Laurita.
“Love Nick’s smile!” she captioned the Reel. “He’s excited to visit his family in Las Vegas!”
Jacqueline Laurita opens up about Nicholas Laurita's autism diagnosis
Bravo viewers were introduced to Nicholas in RHONJ Season 2, which began filming shortly after Jacqueline gave birth. When Nicholas was around 18 months old, Jacqueline began noticing a regression in his speech and motor skills, which prompted the family to seek medical help. In 2012, the mother of three confirmed Nicholas had been diagnosed with autism.
“I can’t help but remember how I felt when Nicholas got his Autism diagnosis,” she wrote on Instagram. “I’ll also always remember how I felt during his regression, before his actual diagnosis. It hurt my heart SO deeply! It was (and still is at times) extremely difficult to see him struggle with things that come so easily to his peers.”
Jacqueline Laurita says she's hopeful for Nicholas Laurita's future
Jacqueline said the diagnosis came with a lot of uncertainty, which, of course, sparked fear. But as time went on, Jacqueline learned to take joy in her son’s developmental milestones.
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“I still have some of those fears, but what I’ve learned is that my child always has the ability to learn more, even if it’s at a different pace than a typical child,” she continued. “Anytime I feel Nicholas is not progressing fast enough, I remind myself of how far he has actually progressed from where he started, and that gives me hope for the future. I know that right now, Nicholas is loving and brilliant! He has an incredible memory, amazing sense of humor and a light within him that shines through with loving energy. He brings so much joy to my life and our family.”
Jacqueline, who is also a mom to Chris “CJ” Laurita and Ashlee Holmes, is now living in Orange County with Nicholas and her hubby, Chris. Find out more about her life on the West Coast and whether she would ever join The Real Housewives of Orange County cast.
