Autism challenges – you are not alone

Psychologist Nirasha Dhaniram shares her experience as a parent of a child with autism.

Two decades ago who knew I was going to be a mother to a child with autism – a psychologist working in autism, an autism advocate and founder of the Imbalito Hope College & Therapy Centre (2 to 18 yrs), the Mikhail D iHope Foundation for skills development (17 years plus) and the Connect Special Needs Forum for parents support and professional development.

In this period we have made strides as forerunners in autism services and advocacy in KZN and South Africa.

Our forum invited minister Motshekga to engage with us on the plight families face in education and healthcare. She was the main speaker at our Rainbow Walk for Autism and Light It Up Blue campaign at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, and autism was placed high on the national agenda.

These campaigns have been held consistently since 2007 at hospitals, schools, shopping centres and the King Shaka International Airport.

The Mikhail D iHope Foundation is a non-profit company committed to support youth with autism so they can be upskilled to enter a meaningful vocation.

Presently there are many persons with autism who live without opportunities, dignity, hope and fulfilment they have a right to.

I named the foundation after my son Mikhail, the reason for this vision and cause to bring hope to people suffering from autism.

April is world autism awareness month and with Mikhail turning 21 this year, it is a momentous occasion for our landmark North Coast centre to celebrate this journey in autism.

I thank God, my family and the wonderful people and organsiations who helped us along the way.

A few words of guidance and encouragement:

• Early intervention is best but getting help at any age is vital. Our brains are always alive, seeking stimuli.
• You are not alone.about 1 in 44 families have a child with autism. Join hands, we can only do this together.
• Raising a child with autism is challenging. Make time to take care of yourself so you can be a better you, partner and parent.
• Be flexible and open to learn. Do not abandon your dreams. Prioritise – the opportunities will re-emerge once your child is on a good programme.

For free advice on coping and managing a child with autism, you are welcome to join our family support forum.

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