Description

Welcome to episode two of the three part series, Life on The Spectrum, where I dive head first into gaining more insight into ASD. Autism Spectrum Disorder, also known as ASD, can be clinically defined as: a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication. The disorder also includes limited and repetitive patterns of behaviour. Throughout the next 3 episodes we will journey through three entirely different perspectives. Individuals will share either their personal journey with ASD or shed light onto what their involvement with individuals who have ASD has looked like.ASD falls along a spectrum and as Becca said in part one of this series, autism is different for everyone. With each individual that has ASD they will have an entirely different way of identifying with autism.I hope through listening to a range of perspectives you are able to see just how diverse ASD can be.My aim with this series is to shed more awareness onto what ASD truly is, how diverse everyones experience can be, address stigmas commonly associated with autism, highlight the strengths these individuals have, and learn ways we can better support those with ASD and their loved ones. Join me as we navigate these conversations together and learn more about our community, including ourselves through the process.

In part 2 of Life on The Spectrum, I chatted with Chelsea Romero. Chelsea’s son Justus, was diagnosed with Autism when he was 2 years old. Justus is now 7 year of age, and currently non verbal while he is learning how to use an iPad to communicate.  Justus also has an apraxia of speech and intellectual disabilities / cognitive issues. Justus is a light within not only the Romero family, but within his community as well.

**If you have not listened to part 1 of Life on The Spectrum, check it out here

During my conversation with Chelsea we spoke about:

• what the diagnosis process looked like for Justus
• the importance of early intervention
• initial emotions Chelsea felt when she found out about her child’s diagnosis
• what a typical day looks like for Justus (routines, school, etc.)
• the joys and strengths Justus has brought to his families life
• Chelsea shares what it is like to be Justus’ primary care giver
• the biggest obstacles with having a child on the spectrum
• how her family ceases the opportunity to educate other kids about individuals with disabilities so they may be better equipped to create a more inclusive environment

There are also 2 questions I am asking each of my guests in the Life On the Spectrum series:

1. What is one thing you wish everyone knew about ASD? OR If there was one thing you could say to society about ASD, what would it be?
2. How can we better support individuals with ASD?

RESOURCES:

M-CHAT

Autism Discussion Facebook Page

For more information, resources, and detailed show notes head to my website!