Awareness Days

18-year-old Maddy is a vibrant and passionate young woman who pours her heart into the people and pursuits she loves. Whether spending quality time with her parents, younger brother or close friends, Maddy thrives on connection. She is a creative crafter, an adaptive para-rock climber and has been a dedicated dancer since the age of two.

Recently, Maddy completed her first year at Carleton University, where she studies cognitive science and neuroscience with the goal of becoming a paediatric Occupational Therapist. Her journey has been shaped by both passion and perseverance. She was diagnosed at 14 with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a progressive and life-changing genetic condition that reshaped her life and worldview.

Grandview Kids has played a vital role in Maddy’s life from the beginning. As an infant, she was referred for hearing assessments and physiotherapy to address torticollis. As she grew, Maddy showed signs of joint hypermobility, frequent bruising and unexplained injuries. It wasn’t until age 13, when her symptoms dramatically worsened, that her family knew something more serious was happening. Persistent digestive issues, dizzy and fainting spells, low blood pressure and severe spine and body pain that impaired her ability to walk led them to SickKids Hospital.

At 14, Maddy was diagnosed with EDS, an inherited disorder that affects connective tissues. Her family soon discovered that her mother, grandmother and cousin also had EDS, though Maddy’s case was more severe. The condition causes joint hypermobility, skin elasticity, chronic pain and severe digestive challenges. She now uses a combination of mobility aids, including a wheelchair, walker and forearm crutches. Due to gastrointestinal complications, she suffered dysmotility (muscles and/or nerves of the digestive system not working appropriately), and she now relies on a gastrojejunostomy (GJ) tube for the majority of her nutrition. Though she can eat small amounts of food, most nourishment is delivered and drained through the tube.

To manage pain and reduce joint dislocations, Maddy wears knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs), braces on her thumb and uses therapeutic taping on her knees and shoulders. Despite the difficulties, she remains incredibly resilient.

Following her diagnosis, Grandview Kids provided Maddy with comprehensive therapy services, medical care–including dietetic and feeding clinic support–and access to social work. Physiotherapy helped manage her pain, gait and endurance challenges, while her therapy team helped secure accessible modifications at home and school. They also guided her through the process of choosing the right wheelchair to navigate her university campus independently.

Social work services played a crucial role in helping Maddy finish high school, especially during periods of illness and hospitalization. The team supported her in navigating the administrative and emotional challenges that came with chronic illness, enabling her to transition successfully into university life.

High school was a difficult time marked by frequent hospital stays, missed classes, self-learning and the loss of social experiences like dances and other milestones. Returning to school with visible medical devices and mobility aids brought a painful new reality: many peers misunderstood her condition, and some even accused her of “faking” it. This misunderstanding and stigma led to intense anxiety and feelings of isolation.

Fortunately, Maddy’s school dance program friends remained a source of strength and encouragement. They stood by her side as she relearned how to dance, supported by mobility aids. Though she could no longer jump or spin without her crutches or wheelchair, Maddy’s passion didn’t waver. Her peers learned how to help her navigate the stage and adapt choreography, embracing her as the powerful performer she has always been.

Maddy continues to pursue dance professionally in Toronto and remains active in her university’s dance community. Her journey with EDS has taught her to believe in herself and to rise above the skepticism of others. She shares this message with fellow youth living with exceptionalities:

“Be confident in yourself and experience life – even if it looks a little different.”

In May, we acknowledge Speech and Hearing Month, Paediatric Stroke Awareness Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, Mental Health Awareness Week, Moyamoya Awareness Day, National Child & Youth Mental Health Day, World Lupus Day, Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day, Intl. Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia, World Cultural Diversity Day and Red Shirt Day. Read more about each date of significance below, written by members of Grandview Kids’ Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee.

Speech and Hearing Month

Each May, we celebrate the important work of speech-language pathologists, audiologists and communication health assistants (CDAs) in the detection and intervention of communication disorders. The theme for 2025 is S-LPs & Audiologists: Doing More Than You Think! Speech-language pathology, audiology and communicative disorders assistant services play a vital role in supporting children with communication and hearing challenges. Early detection of communication disorders and hearing barriers helps improve a child’s ability to express needs, share joy and enhance overall health and well-being.

Paediatric Stroke Awareness Month

Each May, we celebrate Paediatric Stroke Awareness Month to raise awareness about the critical yet often overlooked issue of strokes in children. While paediatric strokes may seem rare, they affect thousands of young individuals each year and represent a growing health concern. This month-long observance aims to highlight the impact of strokes in children, stressing the importance of early recognition, diagnosis and intervention. The campaign is essential in helping both parents and healthcare professionals identify the symptoms of paediatric stroke, which can easily go unnoticed, leading to delayed treatment and potentially long-term consequences for affected children and their families.

Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month across Canada, a time to foster understanding and raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being. Recognizing this month helps reduce stigma and encourages those struggling to ask for help.

Mental health challenges vary widely. Some people experience periods of illness between times when they feel their best, while others face unchanging mental health states. Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity for open, positive dialogue about how mental illnesses impact people and how we can increase access to necessary support.

Different people will have different strategies for maintaining positive mental health, but some popular suggestions include:

Connect with family or friends
Practice mindfulness
Spend time with a pet
Volunteer
Join a support group for challenging times
Eat well
Exercise
Practice self-gratitude
Get outside!

National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls: May 5

May 5 marks the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people (MMIWG2S), also known as Red Dress Day. Coined by Métis artist Jaime Black, the red dress is an aesthetic response to this ongoing national crisis, which is rooted in the impacts of colonization. In Canada, more than 60 per cent of Indigenous women have experienced physical or sexual assault, with the effects of this violence felt across health, wellness and access to care. In line with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action and the National Inquiry’s calls to justice, efforts continue to build research and improve outcomes for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.

On Red Dress Day, and every day, we honour the lives lost, support the families who carry this grief and raise awareness by wearing red, learning about MMIWG2S and participating in community events.

Mental Health Awareness Week: May 5-11

For one week each year, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) drives awareness through its Mental Health campaign. This year’s theme is Unmasking Mental Health. Living with a mental health or substance use challenge is hard enough; masking can make it even harder. People often hide behind a “mask” to protect themselves from judgment and discrimination. But the heavier the stigma, the heavier the mask becomes, and the more isolated we feel.

Between May 5 and 11, CMHA is encouraging people across Canada to look beyond the surface and see the whole person. By embracing honesty and vulnerability, we open the door to deeper connections and the mental health benefits that come with them. In doing so, we can create a ripple effect of courage and understanding across the country. To better understand what CMHA is promoting during this annual campaign, you can read their fact sheet on “What is Masking?“

CMHA shares the impacts of masking:

It’s exhausting. Suppressing emotions takes a toll, adding stress and increasing the risk of burnout.
It creates disconnection. Frequent masking can lead to isolation, strained relationships and a loss of self-identity.
It prevents help-seeking behaviours. Fear of judgment can stop employees from accessing the support they need.

Are you experiencing a mental health crisis? If you or someone you know is in immediate crisis or has suicide-related concerns, call or text 9-8-8 toll-free, anytime, for support in English or French.

Call or text 9-8-8 toll-free, anytime for support in English or French.

Kids Help Phone can also support you:

Call 1-800-668-6868 (24/7)
Text CONNECT to 686868.
Live Chat (7 p.m. to midnight ET)
kidshelpphone.ca

Moyamoya Awareness Day: May 6

Moyamoya is a rare condition that affects the arteries in the brain. The walls of these arteries thicken, narrow and may become blocked, increasing the risk of stroke. In response, the brain may form small new blood vessels to compensate, which appear like a “puff of smoke” on brain scans — the meaning of the word moyamoya in Japanese. Treatment options are limited though surgery may sometimes help restore blood flow. When the condition occurs without an underlying cause, it is called moyamoya disease. If it develops as a result of another condition such as sickle cell disease, thyroid disease or Down syndrome, it is referred to as moyamoya syndrome. The condition is seen more frequently in people of Japanese, Korean or Chinese descent. Symptoms can include recurrent transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes), seizures, full strokes, weakness or paralysis on one side of the body and progressive difficulty with thinking and memory.

National Child & Youth Mental Health Day: May 7

Child and Youth Mental Health Day, marked annually on May 7 in Canada, offers an opportunity to raise awareness of the struggles that children and youth face. It encourages individuals, communities and policymakers to prioritize mental health initiatives. This year, Children’s Mental Health Ontario is highlighting the theme Voices Unheard, Stories Told: Centering the Diversity of Ontario’s Infants, Children & Youth. The campaign recognizes that many children, youth and families—particularly those who are Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, newcomer, Francophone, Northern and low-income—face significant barriers in accessing mental health care. Children’s Mental Health Week 2025 is a chance to amplify these voices, raise awareness about the need for culturally safe, community-based services and call for action to address systemic inequities.

World Lupus Day: May 10

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain in any part of the body. It occurs when the immune system attacks healthy tissue and most commonly affects the skin, joints and internal organs such as the kidneys or heart. Lupus mainly affects women, with nine out of 10 cases found in women, and often begins between the ages of 15 and 44. There is no known cause. Symptoms vary but may include extreme fatigue, joint pain or a butterfly-shaped rash on the face. The theme for World Lupus Day 2025 is Gateway to the Future, focusing on breakthroughs in care and the researchers behind them. The message is: “We will not quit until we secure a better quality of life for all people with lupus, their families and future generations so that everyone can live well in a world without lupus.”

Global Accessibility Awareness Day: May 15

Digital information and services are often not easy for people with disabilities to see, hear, navigate or process. This creates barriers to services, knowledge and engagement with the world. On May 15, we recognize Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) by highlighting the importance of making digital media accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities and impairments.

As the world increasingly shifts to digital media, services and storage, it is essential that everyone can access and navigate information. Adaptability and accessibility through technology can include:

Alternative keyboards and mice
Captions on video and audio content
High-contrast text on websites
The ability to adjust text size
Alternative text (alt text) for images and photos
Reducing visual clutter on apps and web pages

Visit https://accessibility.day/ to learn more about accessibility and adaptability in a digital world.

Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day: May 17

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a group of genetic disorders that cause tumors to form on nerve tissue throughout the body. The most common type, Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1), affects about 1 in 3,000 people globally and can appear in childhood with symptoms like café-au-lait spots and benign skin tumors known as neurofibromas. NF1 can also lead to complications such as learning disabilities, skeletal abnormalities and sometimes affect the optic nerve, causing blindness. Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2) is rarer and causes tumors in the brain and spinal cord, often leading to hearing loss and balance disorders.

The rarest type, schwannomatosis, causes intense pain due to multiple schwannomas, except on the vestibular nerve. There is currently no cure for NF, but treatments focus on managing symptoms and include surgical options, radiation and medication. Mild cases of NF1, NF2 and schwannomatosis typically do not cause severe problems, and affected individuals may require no treatment beyond observation, regular checkups and symptom management. Raising awareness about neurofibromatosis is vital as it aids early diagnosis and improves support for affected individuals and their families.

Intl. Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia: May 17

The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) is observed annually on May 17 to raise awareness of LGBT rights violations and stimulate global interest in LGBT rights work. Since its inception, the day has been commemorated in over 130 countries, promoting understanding and acceptance. Founded to mark the World Health Organization’s 1990 decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder, IDAHOBIT has since expanded to include transphobia and biphobia, highlighting the diverse challenges faced by the LGBT community.

IDAHOBIT seeks to raise awareness of violence, discrimination and repression against LGBT communities worldwide, providing an opportunity for action and dialogue with media, policymakers and civil society. Events range from street marches and festivals to arts and culture activities, reflecting the varied contexts in which rights violations occur. May 17 is a time to celebrate pride, happiness and love, advance the rights of people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and continue the fight for equality and acceptance.

World Cultural Diversity Day: May 21

Every year on May 21, World Cultural Diversity Day encourages people to bridge the gap between cultures. Initiated by UNESCO, the day highlights the value of cultural differences in fostering social cohesion, peace and sustainable development. It encourages individuals and communities to embrace diversity, celebrate cultural heritage and engage in dialogue to build a more inclusive and harmonious world. By recognizing the role culture plays in shaping societies, World Cultural Diversity Day aims to inspire efforts toward a more interconnected and respectful global community.

Red Shirt Day: May 28

Red Shirt Day® (of Action for AccessAbility and Inclusion) is a powerful annual event that unites people across Canada in a visible show of support for individuals with disabilities and their families. Held on the Wednesday of National AccessAbility Week, the initiative was launched by Easter Seals in 2019. It encourages Canadians to wear red as a symbol of solidarity, celebrate the achievements of disabled Canadians and commit to building a more inclusive and accessible society.

Vision Health Month is a time to focus on eye health and vision care, encouraging protective measures to protect and maintain healthy vision. Grandview Kids parent, Jessica, shares her family’s journey with their 3-year-old son Malcolm’s vision loss due to Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD). Though there is currently no known way to prevent SOD, early detection and treatment through therapy and support can help manage the symptoms.

Jessica and Mac have three sons, Keith, Theodore and Malcolm. When Jessica was pregnant with Malcolm, she had planned to have a home birth, but because he arrived well past his due date, they had to change their birth plan and have him at a hospital. This hiccup turned out to be a blessing in disguise. There were complications shortly after his birth as Malcolm’s body went into an adrenal crisis, his body temperature dropped, he was not feeding and his blood sugar was extremely low. They were admitted to the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for a few weeks and connected with SickKids Hospital to be seen by the endocrine and ophthalmology departments. Malcolm was diagnosed with SOD (also known as de Morsier syndrome). This rare congenital malformation is characterized by the underdevelopment of the optic nerve while in utero, leading to blindness, adrenal insufficiency, diabetes insipidus and hypothyroidism. Malcolm also has secondary diagnoses of infantile spasms, hemophilia A and Chiari Malformation.

“We were in denial for a long time with regards to his vision loss. Searching for answers or interventions that would give us some hope that he could see something,” Jessica recalls. “We feared what blindness meant for his already so complex life. Vision is a huge part of our enjoyment, and we placed that same expectation on Malcolm’s life.”

To keep up with the growing list of Malcolm’s medical complexities, his care team connected his parents to Grandview Kids’ Complex Care Program and began receiving therapies. “You don’t want to be part of the Complex Care Program,” Jessica admits, “But it has been lifesaving.” She credits the Complex Care Program for the smooth management and communication of Malcolm’s appointments, medical professionals and connections. The Complex Care team provided consistency, relieving the overwhelm brought on by what felt like endless new diagnoses and care teams. Now, through Grandview Kids, they interact with the same people who know everything about Malcolm. Rather than addressing issues in isolation, they approach Malcolm’s care holistically and family-centred.

Malcolm relies on his parents, siblings and medical professionals to guide him in his life. He will be four years old this year, and his parents are realizing now that he is not transitioning to a more independent life like most toddlers at his age. He is still very dependent on his parents and the people around him, although he tries to show independence in his decisions and likes and dislikes. Malcolm has a unique personality for a child who, on paper, has many things that he must fight against and work hard for. He communicates his wants and needs through facial expressions, cries, laughs or loud noises so people will know he needs attention. He is beginning to say a few words, recognizing how to call upon different family members when he wants them. Malcolm is learning to adapt to his environment, demonstrating excitement, interest or pleasure through rocking back and forth and showing disinterest by pushing away objects with his hands or baring his teeth.

As Jessica and Mac prepare for Malcolm’s transition to school, they are excited to know that he will attend Grandview School for Junior Kindergarten with a team who know and love him. Although it does not take away from the stress of a new season, they know he will receive the services, support and opportunities to thrive in and enjoy school.

Malcolm has taught his family invaluable life lessons. They have learned the importance of remaining present, enjoying their family now and not dwelling on the stress of milestones and what Malcolm’s future will look like. Jessica acknowledges that “[They] are so different as a family because of Malcolm.” Her sons’ report cards “scream empathy” as they demonstrate character development made possible only through lived experience. “They are always trying to understand and help others out and be their support systems. This is because of Malcolm.”

“Malcolm was born blind and doesn’t know a life with sight. His life is still so enriched with the sounds of his favourite songs, his dad signing bedtime prayers, the heat from the sun on his face, the wind blowing in his hair and the excited voices of his brothers. He has taught us to appreciate every little thing around us, not just the obvious visual things.”

When 25-year-old Janae is not studying, she professes her love of singing, going for walks and spending time with friends and family. She graduated from Toronto Metropolitan University, receiving a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree with distinction, and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) with a focus on children and families at the University of Toronto. Janae’s studious disposition stems from her mom, Catherine’s, unwavering validation and her desire to support children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs and their families. Her lived experience, although riddled with barriers paired with social challenges due to her exceptionalities, has compelled her to become an advocate for others.

Janae was born several weeks early and had a low birth weight but was otherwise deemed healthy enough to go home. However, in the two weeks that she was home, Catherine, a paediatric Registered Nurse at SickKids Hospital, noticed that Janae was not breathing or sucking appropriately. She brought her to a local hospital twice, only to be dismissed as suffering from postpartum depression. Intuition led her to visit SickKids Hospital, where Janae was admitted and diagnosed with congenital heart disease (CHD). A procedure called a “cardiac catheterization” revealed several heart defects and the need for heart surgery. However, post-procedure, Janae suffered a massive stroke. The initial prognosis was poor, prompting her physician to plainly state that Janae’s condition was “incompatible with life.” This life-altering experience was devastating for Catherine, who thoroughly understood the severity of her daughter’s condition with her medical background, but as a mom, felt it very hard to absorb.

Janae’s first six months of life were spent at SickKids Hospital. She had several heart repairs and required a temporary feeding tube and a pacemaker. Once stable enough to be home and out of their program, she received home care due to her medically fragile state. Janae received a secondary diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy (CP) as the stroke severely affected the function of her left side, along with her speech and sight. Eventually, her care was transitioned to Grandview Kids, where she would receive many years of Occupational Therapy (OT), Physiotherapy (PT), Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) and care within the Botox ® Clinic.

With lots of hard work and determination from Janae and her family, Janae learned how to crawl, walk and talk at her own pace. Grandview Kids’ OT supported her by giving her tools to help with school. The stroke caused her left hand to be spastic and at one point they curved inwards and looked fisted. She used grips for pencils and equipment to keep her papers in place for writing, as she did not have the stability to hold them with her left hand. Janae described feelings in her left leg akin to “sleeping” or numbness. Her PT worked on improving Janae’s strength and mobility. In early childhood, she had splints in both hands and legs. She also received Botox ® injections for her left hand and leg, which she continues to do presently, for their effectiveness in reducing spasticity.

Every developmental stage brings on new challenges, but the biggest hurdle that Janae continues to face is the social aspect of life with exceptionalities. She required special support in school, but kids would question and tease her. “This made me feel very out of place due to the accommodations, but I was just trying to get to the same place everyone else was already at,” Janae admits. High school was harder and meaner when it came to her peers and teachers, who sometimes dismissed her accommodations as trying to get out of certain classes. She connected with another Grandview Kids youth and banded together against the negative social interactions they faced at school. She began to advocate for herself more, vocalizing her needs and requesting support letters from her Grandview Kids PT and Botox ® Clinic physician.

Catherine ensured that Janae participated in as many Grandview Kids programs as possible to enhance her independence. She attended programs that taught life skills like cooking, dressing and caring for herself, as well as those that provided information on maturing, puberty and body image.

“Grandview Kids tailored programs to where Janae was based on her capabilities, which is amazing to think that this process began over 20 years ago,” Catherine recalls fondly. “Other kids and youth in the classes had varying disabilities, so she didn’t feel singled out. I took every opportunity for Janae to see not only the negative piece of school but also encouraged her to see that other people were also dealing with challenges in life.”

Janae confesses that she sometimes still has doubts about her potential, but her mom is and always will be her biggest advocate. “My mom is always saying to do my best and that I’m able to achieve anything. It’s easy to self-doubt and focus on your disability when everyone sees the disability and not who I am. It has been a real struggle to be okay, but I’ve learned that that does not define me as a person,” she openly shares. Her mom has taught her to stop “putting herself in the box” and that she can “overcome the odds.” Janae acknowledges the need for a strong network and support system, as it influenced how she viewed herself as a black woman with a disability navigating life. Catherine’s constant affirmations prompt her to encourage others in their journeys and teach them about the importance of self-advocacy.

During the month of April, we observe Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month to recognize and support individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects brain development. Children and youth with autism may face challenges with social interactions, have difficulty making eye contact, exhibit repetitive behaviours and experience speech difficulties. Some may be non-verbal, while others may speak occasionally or lose the ability to speak after initially using words.

In recognition of Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, family members of clients shared their experiences of being caregivers to children with autism.

Kaleb’s Story, written by Kaleb’s mom, Erika

My child’s autism diagnosis hasn’t just changed me, as a single mother, but everyone Kaleb and I are closest to. It has made us much more understanding and patient. Personally, I feel like I am so much stronger as a mother. Kaleb doesn’t just have an autism diagnosis but multiple diagnoses including serious mental health issues, and this has made me become such a strong advocate for him and any child with similar disabilities.

I celebrate autism every day, week, month and year! Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month means the world to me and my family. I am trying very hard every day to make sure Kaleb and every child with autism receive the proper help in school and the community. Sadly, autism is still fairly unknown, so the proper support systems are hard to come by locally. I try as much as possible to join any online groups and fundraisers whenever possible for autism awareness and acceptance.

Logan Story, written by Logan’s mom, Kayla

Logan’s Autism diagnosis flipped our entire world upside down, and in many ways, despite the struggles, for the better. I was on my way to becoming a 9-1-1 telecommunicator and was about to graduate college when it became increasingly obvious he was “peaking.” Our family doctor had pushed for assessments through Grandview Kids from an extraordinarily young age, and at the time, I was ignorant. With his delayed/missed milestones and speech coupled with increasingly intense tics at the age of two, we finally agreed to be assessed and got his diagnosis.

As a family, we have altered our lifestyle, including future and occupational goals, to focus on Logan’s functioning, education, seizures and other medical issues that have come as a result of comorbidity to his Autism. Regardless of the sacrifices and cons, this diagnosis has brought us so much knowledge and resources and provided a community for us to thrive and grow. Logan and I have met the kindest souls through Grandview Kids, including other children on the spectrum and parents navigating this disorder that we can relate to.

We will celebrate Autism Month by sharing posts and stories to spread awareness, wearing our coolest Autism merch and most importantly celebrating Logan’s 6th birthday on April 5th – which always feels like such a fitting month since learning of his Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis! Double celebration! This month to us is not only about awareness, but supporting the de-stigmatization of Autism as well. I hope that in spreading information and combatting misinformation we can further educate those that do not understand the spectrum and help enlighten parents of neurotypical children on how to teach their youths to be a supportive friend and ally to those with ASD and similar conditions. This month is not only celebratory but promotes education and, in turn, acceptance just by being noted and seen. This month creates a sense of togetherness and opacity in a diagnosis that can often feel lonely and invisible. “To be loved is to be seen” ❤️!!!

A drawing by Logan of the former
Grandview Kids headquarters.

As an “Autism Mom,” I try my best to spread awareness of the immense talents, abilities and positive traits of my own child and many other individuals on the spectrum. I believe there needs to be more focus on the pros and gifts that come with Autism, without dismissing that there are negative aspects too. I utilize word of mouth and social media to distribute helpful information. I also proudly wear my pins, jewelry and clothing not only to show my pride and support for my son and his community, but knowing someone may ask me about what I’m wearing and open the floor to meaningful discussion.

Molly’s Journey, written by Molly’s mom, Erin

In the first couple of years after our daughter’s diagnosis, we felt overwhelmed and lost, unsure of what the future would hold. But as time went on, we realized that the diagnosis wasn’t the big, bad monster —it was simply a part of who she is. That shift in perspective allowed us to focus on the small wins and everyday joys, appreciating life in a way we had not before. It also pushed me out of my comfort zone. As someone who is naturally shy, I had to learn to speak up, advocate and take things head-on. This journey has changed me in ways I never expected, making me stronger, more present and more grateful for each moment.

For Molly, celebrating Autism and Grandview Kids goes hand in hand. She loves hearing the story of her diagnosis and how she started at Grandview Kids, often looking through old pictures and her communication book to see how far she’s come. It’s a special way for us to reflect on her hard work and progress. We also try to change our outside lights to blue for April—though some years, life gets busy! Last year, Molly took the celebration into her own hands by asking her teacher to share her story with her class on World Autism Day. She even created her own slide deck, explaining her challenges and how Grandview Kids helped her learn to speak. Seeing her take pride in her journey is the best way we celebrate. Watching her stand up and speak for herself was such a proud, full-circle moment.

This month is a great reminder to keep awareness and acceptance front and centre. It’s important to keep the conversation going and support efforts that make a real difference. The more we talk about it and help others understand, the more accepting and inclusive the world becomes—not just this month, but all year round.

Like Molly, we focus on supporting Grandview Kids and sharing our story to help spread awareness of how they’ve made a difference in our family’s life. Over the years, we’ve participated in various events, with the most significant being our role as an Ambassador Family for the recently completed Believe Campaign. But awareness and acceptance also happen in the small, everyday moments—by being open and honest with family, friends, colleagues, neighbours and even acquaintances. We love to talk about Molly because she is such a unique, kind and funny person who brings us so much joy. We believe people learn best when they have a personal connection and feel comfortable asking questions, so we embrace those conversations whenever they arise.

Teagan & Logan’s Story, written by Teagan and Logan’s parents, Gregory & Kara

My children’s autism diagnosis has made us realize that as a family, no matter how many challenges life throws at us that we can get through everything if we work together. We are celebrating Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month by making sure that we are actively involved in the autism community through participation in social groups and attending events that cater to children with autism. This month is a chance to showcase all the amazing, unique and inspiring things that our children can do and have accomplished. We encourage our children to be part of groups, events and show people that despite their diagnosis, our children can enjoy and be active members of the community. We also share resources with other families to let them know what is available for their kids and encourage them to join.

Faith’s Journey, written by Faith’s mom, Sophia

Joining the autism club was not something I signed up for, but wow—what a journey it’s been! My daughter’s diagnosis has completely reshaped who I am, and honestly, I like this newer, better version of me. I have become more patient, kind and much less judgmental, and I am proud of the grace and joy I bring to tough situations now. The challenges? They are very real. But they have taught me to embrace life’s messiness and celebrate every little victory. It’s been a wild ride, and I would not trade the lessons or the love for anything. There is nothing I cannot get through now.

This month, I’m keeping the spirit of awareness and acceptance alive in so many ways. First by celebrating how far we have come as a family with a child on the spectrum. I’m reminding my team at work that it’s Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month and encouraging them to support activities or even join me in donating to amazing organizations like Grandview Kids or Autism Ontario. I’ll be guest-hosting an Autism Awareness Podcast with another family who has a son on the spectrum, which I’m really excited about. I’m also participating in a fundraising walk at Whitby Heydenshore Park. Beyond that, I’m making it a priority to keep the conversations going—sharing resources, stories and simple ways everyone can help create a more inclusive world. Every bit of effort makes a difference!

Autism Month is all about celebrating the amazing ways individuals with an autism diagnosis, like my daughter Faith, see and experience the world. It’s a chance to listen, learn and make sure everyone, including her, feels valued, included and safe to be her unique self, no matter how they think or communicate. In my community—like at my daughter’s school, with friends and at church—I use my experience as a mom of a thriving autistic daughter to share helpful tools and resources. This includes sharing programs like the Access 2 Card for participating venues like CNE and Wonderland, Autism Ontario sensory-friendly events, the Sunflower Program for airports and information on OAP funding. I love helping families discover opportunities that make a real difference for our kids and their caregivers.

Éamon’s Story, written by Éamon’s mom, Susan

Our son’s Autism has made us realize that you can never truly understand all that someone else is going through. He has helped us see the world in different and positive ways. The community that our son has built around himself just by virtue of his diagnosis has astounded us in their capacity for caring, understanding and support. Despite the stereotypes associated with being “different,” our son shows us every day not to underestimate his abilities.

As the youngest of five, I always admired my older siblings. However, it is my brother Mohsin who leaves the deepest impact on my life. When he was diagnosed with autism and pervasive developmental disorder as a child, I was too young to understand what that truly meant. All I knew was that Mohsin was different—not in a way that made him less, but in a way that made him uniquely himself. His love for music, especially singing, was unlike anything I had ever seen. And while his journey looked different from mine, one thing never changed: how much we loved him.

Being Mohsin’s sibling has shaped me in ways I never expected. It’s taught me patience, empathy and the importance of seeing people for who they truly are. Siblings often play a unique role, despite the fact we’re not always seen as caregivers, our influence can be profound. Through Mohsin, I’ve learned how to advocate, listen and celebrate the strengths in others, even when the world doesn’t always recognize them. His journey has inspired me to work in the field of mental health and advocacy, striving to create a world where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive and be valued for exactly who they are.

April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, a time to recognize and support the autism community in meaningful ways. Awareness isn’t just about understanding autism; it’s about taking action. It means ensuring that spaces are accessible and equitable. Accessibility focuses on making sure people can physically enter a space or use a service, but equity goes further. It’s about providing the right support, resources, and opportunities so that everyone, regardless of ability, can fully participate and thrive.

This month, I’m focusing on sharing stories that highlight the strengths, challenges and experiences of individuals with autism, learning more about what it is and supporting local advocacy organizations in Durham Region. Beyond that, I want to encourage conversations that challenge stereotypes, promote meaningful inclusion, and recognize the value that neurodivergent individuals bring to our communities.

My brother Mohsin has taught me so much about resilience, joy and the power of unconditional love. His journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has been full of growth, laughter and connection. Autism Awareness & Acceptance Month is a reminder that embracing diversity and practicing kindness should not be limited to one month, but something we work toward every day. By listening, learning and advocating for real change, we can build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.