I was born twenty-two years ago to very loving parents. I struggled socially, with emotional regulation and with my physical coordination as a young child. I also struggled with intense interests, repetitive behaviors, stimming, taking things literally, one sided conversations, making blunt statements without realizing they were hurtful, and making eye contact when I was young. My parents…
My name is Ashley. My story is unique in that I was diagnosed with autism later in my life as an adult at the age of 28. I’m currently now 34 years old. Growing up for me had its ups and downs. During school, I was bullied by my peers for having to be in…
My son attends Earl Kitchener Elementary school, a recognized autistic school for their programs and staff. He began this SK year with great anxiety and fear the first week. We walk to school. Approaching the playground of noise and chaos, walking into the gated area to meet his EA and being physically present in that…
This is true love, acceptance and understanding ! This is my little guy (who lives with Autism) being helped during a time of high stress by a friend at Parry Sound Forest School. His friend took his hand and talked him through a transition with love and understanding. We are so thankful for the love…
Robbie and James are both on the spectrum and from a very young age we have had them participate in extra curricular activities. Both boys have strong gross motor skills and fell in love with softball. It didn’t matter if it was raining, snowing, windy or very hot, they were on our driveway or in…
Seven years ago, my principal came to me and said, “I have a great opportunity for you!”I looked at her with suspicion, because in education, a “great opportunity” often means a great deal of extra work! Building the Secondary Social Communication Program (SSCP) has been a great deal of work,but it has been some of…
With all the negative stories we hear every day, I wanted to share something I hope makes you smile. I drove with Matthew for the first time. He was in the driver seat, while I was the passenger; what an ironic metaphor for our journey. After gripping the door handle for what seemed like hours,…
My name is Michael Tanzer and I am 26 years old. I have brown hair, hazel eyes, I wear glasses like my parents and I have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I can write and understand in different languages like French, Japanese, German, Spanish, Korean and Hindi. My favourite TV show is South Park, because I…
My son Patrick Whyte was diagnosed with ASD, ADHD and Anxiety Disorder at age 7. At the time, I distinctly remember the psychiatrist telling Patrick’s dad and I was told not to make plans for Patrick’s future and not to expect much from him. Well, this definitely was not something I was willing to accept,…
April 2, 2016 was World Autism Day. This year, the South West Detention Centre partnered up with Autism Ontario in order to raise awareness. The Autism Ontario mission is to “ensure that each individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder is provided the means to achieve quality of life as a respected member of society. A partnership…