I felt my heart sink. My daughter, Emma, had been diagnosed with autism two years ago. She was vibrant, full of life, and yes, she was different — but in the most beautiful ways. How could my own sister see this as a reason to exclude her?

“Emma is just as capable as any other child,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady. “She’s been in pools before. She’s even had swimming lessons.”

“That’s not the point,” my sister insisted, crossing her arms defensively. “I just think it would be better for everyone if she stayed out.”