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Life On the Spectrum

Spectrum Spotlight

A spectrum of voices united for autism awareness and acceptance

Meet Dr. Melanie Penner

Disclaimer: Autism Speaks Canada utilizes both person-first (person with autism) and identity-first (autistic person) language and recommends respecting the choice of the autistic individual and or family for their preferred choice. Life on the Spectrum shares lived experiences and authentic stories of autistic Canadians from coast to coast to coast. The answers to the questions are provided by the autistic person and or family. We are thankful to the participants for trusting us. We strive to share their stories authentically and respectfully. Information provided on our website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider and does not replace the advice of medical, legal or educational professionals. Autism Speaks Canada does not provide medical or legal advice or services. Rather, Autism Speaks Canada provides general information about autism as a service to the community. The information provided on our website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider and does not replace the advice of medical, legal or educational professionals. Autism Speaks Canada has not validated and is not responsible for any information, events, or services provided by third parties. 

Meet Dr. Melanie Penner


Meet Dr. Melanie Penner, MD MSc FRCPC, a Developmental Paediatrician and Clinician Investigator at Autism Research Centre.

Dr. Penner works in collaboration with co-PI’s Dr. Evdokia Anagnostou (Research Lead), and Dr. Jessica Brian (Behaviour Science) to introduce innovative methods of impacting change in clinical service, and engage community partners. In doing so, the Autism Learning Health Network will obtain a deeper understanding of how Canadian families can effectively move through the system and access the best care possible.

“We are eager to continue our contributions to the Autism Learning Health Network (ALHN). In ALHN, we develop best practices across North America as well as tools to evaluate and improve the local care that we provide. We are particularly happy to share our own innovative practices for early recognition of autism, timely diagnosis, and supportive strategies for management including safe medication use.”

Dr. Melanie Penner

Help us be a catalyst for life-enhancing research breakthroughs.

Disclaimer: Autism Speaks Canada utilizes both person-first (person with autism) and identity-first (autistic person) language and recommends respecting the choice of the autistic individual and or family for their preferred choice. Life on the Spectrum shares lived experiences and authentic stories of autistic Canadians from coast to coast to coast. The answers to the questions are provided by the autistic person and or family. We are thankful to the participants for trusting us. We strive to share their stories authentically and respectfully. Information provided on our website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider and does not replace the advice of medical, legal or educational professionals. Autism Speaks Canada does not provide medical or legal advice or services. Rather, Autism Speaks Canada provides general information about autism as a service to the community. The information provided on our website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider and does not replace the advice of medical, legal or educational professionals. Autism Speaks Canada has not validated and is not responsible for any information, events, or services provided by third parties.