'Don’t just stare, give us a smile': A mother’s plea for families living with autism

Seri Amalia Khairil, mother of 11-year-old Mohamad Darwisyh Mohamad Azmey, recounts the everyday reality of raising a child with autism, a neurodevelopmental condition that profoundly affects communication, socialization, and sensory processing. Darwisyh, diagnosed at age three, is non-verbal and struggles to express his needs, sometimes resorting to self-harm when upset. He requires constant adult supervision, wears diapers, and faces difficulties with self-regulation, particularly in crowded environments. His family's routines, priorities, and plans have been reshaped around his needs. Despite the family's efforts to manage Darwisyh's sensory overload with headphones and protective gear, they frequently encounter stares and judgment from the public. Seri recalls an incident at a restaurant where bystanders moved away from their family, seemingly unable to control their child. She emphasizes that while stares are a natural reaction to unfamiliar behavior, the harsh judgment and shunning are deeply hurtful. Seri's plea is for greater public understanding and empathy. She shared an experience at a swimming complex where Darwisyh's refusal to leave led to public scrutiny. Her simple explanation, "Sorry, he has autism," was met with continued stares, prompting her to add, "If you don’t know what autism is, you can read about it." The family's journey underscores the need for awareness and acceptance of individuals with autism and their families.

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Sorry, he has autism.