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Life On the Spectrum

Spectrum Spotlight

A spectrum of voices united for autism awareness and acceptance

Meet Jack & Quinn

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 Jack & Quinn

Jack and Quinn are two beautiful, bright, happy and healthy brothers who have autism. They have very different personalities and, being at opposite ends of the autism spectrum, have very different needs. Both brothers were diagnosed at a young age and benefited greatly from early intensive intervention services.

“One word comes to mind when one thinks of Jack – determined. Diagnosed at 2 1/2, the only words he had at age 3 were “car” and the numbers 1 through 10. The following years were filled with a lot of intensive behavioural intervention and hard work. By the time he had graduated elementary school, he was his class valedictorian. Now in grade 8, Jack is on student council and has been on the honour roll every term thus far. Kind, curious and gregarious, Jack is also dedicated to making the world a more inclusive and more accepting place for his little brother.”

“Quinn, age 11, is the quiet and shy brother who also happens to have a great sense of humour and mad computer skills. Crowds, haircuts and doctors’ visits are overwhelming and scary for him. Diagnosed at 17 months, Quinn’s progress has been slow and steady as he continues to learn and grow and acquire new skills. Anyone who takes the time to get to know him is rewarded by the world’s best hugs from a little boy who is so filled with love and joy.”

Jack and Quinn were the 2018 National and Montreal Walk Ambassadors for Autism Speaks Canada. Please join us in helping create a kinder more inclusive world for people with autism. Show your support for Jack, Quinn and other people with autism by donating generously.

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.