Convicted murderer Karen McCarron killed her three-year-old autistic daughter saying "she wanted to free her from the disease."

One mother of an autistic child speaks out on McCarron's actions and tells us why the murder affects more than just the autism community.

Peoria mother of five Diane Parrish and convicted murderer Karen McCarron have one thing in common. They both know what it's like to raise a child with autism.

"I think the general public is aware of autism but I don't think they understand the minute-to-minute management of any family dealing with a child that's disabled and has a form of communication problem," said Parrish.

McCarron chose to end her three-year-old daughter Katie's communication problem by suffocating her to death.

While Diane and her family did everything in their power to help their eight-year-old son Stuart succeed.

"When you have a disabled child it presents an opportunity as a parent to go further in love for your child."

Easter Seals Autism Coordinator Jan Burmood says their organization provides support for families like the Parrish's and McCarron's.

"When the family is at its wits end when their child won't go to bed we have families that are available out there now who can help those families through their struggles," said Burmood.

Parrish says McCarron's actions don't just impact people who have an autistic child.

"Not only does it affect the autism community but parents in general I mean as a mother of five our hearts go out to the family the husband the other little girl the grandparents its tragic."