Diary of a Beautiful Special Needs Sibling

  Wow, just wow.   So, first of all, let me start by saying “Thank You, God” Three months ago, I started planning my hangout- I started by opening up a link for people to register, I wanted to see if people would be interested in it. Surprisingly, over 33 people registered. I was already so motivated to keep it going. The essence of this hangout was to introduce the initiative behind the mission and also to spark up a conversation about special needs. So I just wanted to have that talk with people about disabilities. A part of me wondered if it would be a “Safe space.” Whether people would want to talk, but I was proven wrong.  They spoke. So many people were so interested in talking. I deserve a pat on my back for coming up with this. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so proud of myself.  My country isn’t the best for catering well to its citizens, so I lose hope when I think about special needs and whether they can do so much more to help persons with disabilities and s...

  My family’s life changed when we received a diagnosis for my brother’s absurd behaviour. I can’t remember things from my childhood, but I remember Tobi to an extent.  He had to go to regular schools and would not stay in class; his therapy sessions had meltdowns that were too difficult to handle. Recently, I asked myself,” If I had a chance to erase Autism from my life, would I do it?” instead, if I could choose to have a neurotypical brother, would I? I don’t know. I say this with all honesty.  I think about it- would I have had a great relationship with Tobi if he wasn’t autistic? Oh God, I don’t know. I know he would be a very annoying boy like every other younger brother is.  A part of me wouldn’t want to erase it despite the challenges. You see, I’m going to go spiritual. God brings everyone to this world for a reason. See. Let me blow your mind. God actually brings someone to this world to address a particular issue and when he creates a person, he already ha...

  It’s the international awareness month of Down Syndrome, and what does that mean? Spreading awareness on the condition, duh! Down syndrome, or Trisomy 21 , is a genetic condition when an individual has an extra copy of chromosome 21.  Usually, humans have 46 chromosomes; in the case of Down syndrome, there is an additional copy of chromosome 21, resulting in 47 chromosomes. This extra chromosome causes developmental and intellectual delays, as well as specific physical characteristics that may include Slanted almond-shaped eyes, A protruding tongue, Short stature, and more. I’ll tell you something I told my mom,” representation matters!” One way representation can be achieved is through screen time and movies!  We need more media on special needs- books! Movies! Animation! Everything!  Special needs-centered movies help with education; they often depict the strengths, talents, and capabilities of individuals with disabilities, challenging misconceptions and promoti...

Okay, I’m going to be straight with you. Having a special-needs person in your family is a blessing, but it is also challenging. I’m not going to sugarcoat it. IT IS A CHALLENGE, but also quite beautiful.  There are moments when your faith would be skyrocketing- you believe that anything is possible- there are also moments when things are going downhill and you wonder if any God is listening- even though that big man has been providing a lot for you. I started my sibling support group “Your Safe Space” because of one thing and that’s support.  “it takes a village to raise a child with autism” My parents are lucky that they have me and my wonderful sister to assist in the home and also the upbringing of Tobi. Unfortunately, it’s not like that in other homes. In some homes, siblings run away because of various reasons- depression, lack of care, fear, and rejection.  You cannot blame them. Although, there is always the choice to stay- it’s not always clear to many people. Do...