Holly Robinson and Rodney Peete Discuss Challenges in Life

Opening up about their tumultuous past, Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete opened up about finding the strength to face their son’s autism diagnosis and to save their marriage.

Speaking with Redbook for their May 2010 issue, the Peete's shared their story in an effort to inspire families everywhere to find hope and connection in the face of the devastating disorder that challenges their son.

Talking about dealing with their son R.J.’s diagnosis, Holly says, “We went through this emotional connection, and we just cried in each other’s arms. We didn’t know what the hell this autism thing was. We were both in denial for a few weeks.” Rodney adds: “I stayed angry and blamed the doctor and was still in denial—while Holly basically rolled up her sleeves and did what needed to be done.”

On how the experience has transformed him, former NFL player Rodney tells, “It made me let my guard down and be vulnerable. That was hard for me, because I had been expected to be strong and show confidence always—when you’re a quarterback, that’s what you’ve got to do…In retrospect, it’s also made me think how ironic it is that my whole life has been spent on team sports…That’s what it takes, a team, and that’s what Holly was trying to get me to understand.”

As for what they've learned as a couple, Mrs Peete explains, “The problem with autism is that you don’t know if things are going to come out fine. You just have to tweak the expectations. And that’s what I knew I needed Rodney for—I needed a partner in that journey. We still have our issues, but there’s never any talk of our marriage being over, or any of that stuff we used to talk about.” Adds Rodney: “It’s Team Peete.”