On April 2nd every year, the United Nations commemorates World Autism Awareness Day. It is a day dedicated to speaking out against discrimination, celebrating our diversity, and strengthening our commitment to the full inclusion and participation of people with autism. Rotarian Sylvia Moraa, a mother of two children with autism, invites us into her world as she shares the joys, challenges, and fears of raising children with special needs.
Congratulations on the launch of Andy Speaks 4 SNP and for speaking up for special needs children. What is Andy Speaks? Andy Speaks is a calling. It’s that one thing God calls you to do and you try to ignore, but He makes sure you get it. Last year, my life was crumbling and I questioned my life purpose and why God gave me two children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I got guidance from Proverbs 31:8-9 (8: Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; for the rights of all who are destitute and, 9: Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy).
Andrew’s non-verbal life is the inspiration behind the organization. While other differently abled individuals can stand up for their rights and communicate their needs, nearly 80% of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities are non-verbal and often left out in the support provided by institutions and society. Andy Speaks aims to raise awareness to end stigma, be the voice of neurodevelopmentally challenged individuals, and give a voice to ensure their inclusivity, integration, and implementation of policies for their basic needs.
What support system is in place for differently abled children in Kenya? Physically challenged individuals have better systems set up by the government in terms of schools and disability support by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD). Those with neurodevelopmental challenges (ND) are just starting to be included. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Cerebral Palsy (CP), Down Syndrome (DS), Learning Disabilities, and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD) are conditions that are just coming to light. The government has now set up special units for those with developmental disabilities, though they are not adequately equipped. We hope that the planned shift to the competency-based education curriculum will give differently abled individuals a better chance for integration.
When did you realize that your sons were different? At three months, Andy’s neck had not stabilized, and he was experiencing many health challenges. At six months, he had a major convulsion and was put on anti-convulsants as sclerosis was revealed after a head scan. Later, we realized he wasn’t meeting his growth milestones and at three years old, I took him for evaluations and received the ASD diagnosis. Brad, on the other hand, was just slow in his speech. I had assumed that this was due to his closeness with his brother. He used to have febrile convulsions, which stopped for three years, but this year he has had two unprecedented ones. We are discussing this with a neurologist.
What has been most rewarding watching them grow? What are their strengths? It is the little milestones that we often take for granted. For Andy, it was when he spoke at five years old, walked at around three and a half years old, got out of diapers at three, and so on. Last year, when he was using two-word phrases and this year, the fact that he fully follows instructions and can form a sentence! He loves music and dancing, and swimming, although his idea is just being inside the water! He has a heart of gold and loves with an unmatched intensity. As for Bradley, he has a photographic memory that I’m dying to
Rotary Club of Muthaiga
THE INSPIRATION
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