World Autism Awareness Day falls on 2 April, presenting an opportunity to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and promote greater acceptance and well-being for individuals with ASD and their families.
ASD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder, often characterised by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive or restricted behaviours and interests. Individuals with autism and their families frequently face stigma, prejudice and discrimination. In this journey, many caregivers have stepped forward to advocate for greater acceptance and understanding. Their stories remind us that true inclusion goes beyond awareness – it begins with empathy and acceptance.
A Mother’s Unwavering Dedication
Mdm Chua Soh Ling (above, centre) is the devoted mother of two daughters, Ms Lau Gek Teng (above, left) and Ms Lau Gek Huee (above, right), both diagnosed with ASD. Despite sharing the same diagnosis, the sisters have distinct personalities. Gek Teng is more sociable, while Gek Huee is highly sensitive to noise, which can trigger her anxiety.
As the primary caregiver, the 53-year-old Mdm Chua describes her experience as a constant race against time – managing her daughters’ needs requires her full attention every waking moment.
Both Gek Teng, 24 and Gek Huee, 22, attended the same special education (SPED) school, where they received support and behavioural management training. The years spent accompanying them to school and observing their teachers intervention strategies have helped Mdm Chua better understand and support her daughters. Both sisters have acquired skills that allowed them to take on ad-hoc packing jobs at home to earn some allowances.
Image credit: Mdm Chua Soh Ling
Following her graduation, Gek Teng joined SPD’s Day Activity Centre (DAC) in 2019.
Reflecting on her journey, Mdm Chua shares: “Raising children with autism is challenging as every day presents a new battle. It’s easy to overlook their strengths and focus on their weaknesses. SPD has given me some breathing space to destress and focus on myself.”
Finding Support in Community
Since joining SPD, Gek Teng has made significant progress – she is now more independent and confident in social interactions. Encouraged by her daughter’s development, Mdm Chua enrolled Gek Huee in SPD’s DAC in August 2024. Mdm Chua hopes the public will develop greater understanding and compassion for people with disabilities.
“People like my children may struggle to communicate their feelings or understand how others feel. I hope that, instead of staring and judging when they have a meltdown in public, people can give them some space and patience,” she said.
For ageing caregivers like Mdm Chua, concerns about their children’s future after they are gone remain a heavy burden. “If letting go was easy, I believe many mothers would have already passed this test,” reflected Mdm Chua.
Despite the challenges, Mdm Chua is grateful for the progress that society has made in supporting people with ASD. She appreciates the opportunities available to her children and hopes for continued support to ensure that no one is forgotten or isolated because of their condition.
On World Autism Awareness Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a more understanding, inclusive, and supportive society – one where every individual, regardless of ability, is given the opportunity to thrive.
Cover image credit: Bob Lee, Finding What’s Next