Meet Andrew and His Mom Tiffany
Andrew is just starting his diagnosis process. At the age of two, I his mother, started to notice some red flags and I wanted to see if Andrew had Autism or at least on the spectrum. Fast forward to now at the age of 3 we have had one appointment to see the doctor to find out.
Where are you located in Canada?
St. John’s, Newfoundland
What does it mean to you to be autistic?
Just having a hard time saying how I feel and having words to express this. Once people get to know my actions then it starts to become easy to understand. But, don’t discredit me I am very smart in so many other ways.
What are your autism strengths?
Andrew can put 24 piece puzzle together in minutes with barely any help since he was 2 and a half years old and has excellent problems solving skills. Andrew loves playing with others but sometimes tends to turn into an controlling situation due to Andrew not able to say he needs things done/put in the way he would like. I find if we had a way to get people aware of this like doing this documentary, would help others know how to help in these situations and not have mistaking his “anger” or his “sooking manner” as something bad but know it’s the only way he has to express how he feels due not having a large range of words.
What are some things that are hard for you?
Andrew is big on routines and having something change seems to upset him a bit more then the average kid. With explaining why and guiding him makes a huge difference. Over the past year each redirect of the situation has gotten easier on me and Andrew.
What role has your family played in your autism journey?
Our family helps and supports us when ever we need an extra hand. Coming to visit is more learning and helping him with his speech. We have a very supporting family and with that I’m glad to have the support it can be draining dealing with it.
What advice would you give to a person, recently diagnosed with autism, wondering what the future holds for them? What are your goals and hopes for the future?
Each day we just hope to help Andrew with his speech to help him say what he wants and needs. In every other way he meets or exceeds the goals. Don’t stop, having autism should never stop you. Know your other skills and use them to overcome the things you are not strong in. It should never hold you back.
What five words best describe you?
Smart. Kind. Loving. Funny. Happy.
Why are you interested in becoming an Autism Speaks Canada Ambassador?
To help raise awareness, understanding. Living with autism shouldn’t hold anyone back and people need to know that.
Join us in our mission of increasing understanding and acceptance of autism by donating today.
