Chern’s Story: Being a Parent of a Person with Special Needs

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and experiences the world. It can vary widely in its expression, with some individuals needing significant support in daily life while others live independently. Early diagnosis and intervention can help children with autism develop important social, communication, and learning skills, often through therapies tailored to their specific needs.

For parents, receiving an autism diagnosis for their child can bring a mix of emotion; relief, confusion, grief, or concern about the future. Raising a child on the spectrum often involves navigating medical systems, educational accommodations, and social misunderstandings. Yet many parents also describe the journey as one filled with personal growth, resilience, and deep love. Support from professionals, community networks, and other families can make a significant difference in helping them feel empowered and not alone. 

Meet Chern, a mother of 3.  

Chern’s family knew in their hearts that Joseph had autism at around the age of 2. They informally confirmed it with his brother's psychologist when he was 3 so that they could start with some intervention earlier. He actually had an older brother who was diagnosed with autism then and actively going through intervention, so they did the same form of therapy. 

When Joseph was 5, he wasn’t handled well by his kindergarten thereafter was traumatized. The teachers at the self-proclaimed "inclusive kindergarten" did not support him as promised and Joseph broke emotionally. As a result, Chern had to withdraw him from kindergarten at 5 as he couldn’t function at all. 

The 2 years that followed was grueling for her as Joseph was completely reliant on her for his every need, including every decision to be made. Joseph lost the ability to even think for himself. This left Chern torn between being his sole pillar of support and still having to attend to his two other brothers, one of whom was only a baby then. 

They worked hard to help Joseph heal from his trauma and restore his confidence in himself as an individual. 

Thankfully, soon after he was offered a place in Pathlight school. Instead of overwhelming him with a whirlwind of demands and confusing schedules, Pathlight offered him clear structure and visuals which was instrumental in helping Joseph stabilize and regain confidence in himself. He eventually overcame his fears and even performed publicly. 

His journey through Secondary school and Polytechnic was never easy, but Joseph was determined to face his challenges and not shy away from the demands of integrating with the mainstream students. It is true that he often makes intentional social mistakes which cost him opportunities to develop friendships, and often struggles with his own self-image, but he persevered on and continues to attempt to achieve new milestones.