Would this offend you?

I’m waiting on an evaluation for my toddler for autism. He is showing many characteristics but has yet to be diagnosed. I have shared my concerns with family in the past but randomly today my mother in law said to me after watching him, “he may be disabled but he’s still really cute.” And I don’t know it just really pissed me off. Especially since she said it in front of him. I don’t think of him as disabled. He is very very able. And I’ll admit I was very triggered by the word but it got me thinking if maybe I shouldn’t be. I know my mother in law didn’t mean it to be hurtful and was her way of accepting him. But at the same time, I’m really uncomfortable with the justification of him being “cute” it’s only ok he’s disabled because he’s cute. He’s a toddler of course he is cute… but he is fricking way more than cute. He is smart and funny and loving…

Ugh I don’t know. Is “disabled” even a negative word? It does bother me. Saying “he has a disability.” Doesn’t as much. My husband has a learning disability (dyslexia) but he isn’t disabled. Ugh anyway, am I right to be upset by what she said? Should I talk to her about it? Any insight form special needs parents? Thank you.