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Life On the Spectrum

Spectrum Spotlight

A spectrum of voices united for autism awareness and acceptance

Meet Ileana

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 Ileana

Meet Ileana. She’s a 16 year old global traveler, autistic Canadian and was the 2020 National & Ottawa Walk Ambassador.

Ileana is a gentle soul with a heart of gold and loves everyone, especially her brother and her puppy. She gets very excited to see her brother play sports and is his biggest cheerleader! She has an infectious laugh and beautiful smile that lights up any room she walks into.

She loves multitasking on her iPad and enjoys listening to music. One can often find her searching for music videos on YouTube and singing along. Ileana absolutely loves traveling. When it’s time to go on vacations, she gets super excited and brings all our suitcases to the front door.

“Team Ileana looks forward to walking, raising money and creating awareness for autism. We are blessed with the most supportive family, friends and community who have been with us throughout our journey.”

Elpitha Gournakis, Ileana’s Mother, Ottawa, Jan 2020

Support Team Ileana in helping create a kinder more inclusive world for people with autism.

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.