Fizza’s Journey: Growing up with a sibling with Autism

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.