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John Doyle is a respected dramatist, actor and broadcaster who is better known as his alter ego, Roy Slaven, one half of the comedy sports duo Roy & HG. His sister was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder at the age of 11.
Since becoming Patron of Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), it has been an experience of appreciation and reflection for me. It has been wonderful learning about the extraordinary work that Aspect does for the autism community, and the exciting plans for the future. At the same time, it has been sobering placing my own family’s experience in context.
When my sister Jennifer came into the world in rural Australia in the 1950s, the syndrome was unheard of. She was placed under the general umbrella of ‘subnormal’ and was given no chance of ever being able to contribute to, or be part of, common society. There were no treatments available. As a result, in many ways, the blinds came down on our family and mum and dad were locked into a lifetime of care. I am still in awe of their achievements. While dad held down two jobs, mum managed our corner store and cared for her aged mother while at the same time attending to Jen. In those years, she taught her to walk, to eat, to speak, to read and to write.
Jen was diagnosed at age 11. I can still recall the euphoria when they returned from Sydney after meeting with Dr Vern Barnett — Jennifer was autistic. She is now 50 and still lives with mum and dad, and while there were years of almost impossible frustration, anger and difficulty, she has now settled into being a person with a sharp sense of humour and a genuine love of family get-togethers. Mercifully, tantrums are now rare.
Mum, dad, my sisters and brother, my wife Deanna and I visited Aspect’s Central Coast School last year, and were amazed at what is being achieved. Mum was particularly moved by what she saw and heard, and by the progress being made by so many children with autism. The fact is that in all those years she had only ever seen one other autistic child!
The recent release of the Australian prevalence report has confirmed what Aspect has promoted for years – that there are many, many more families in our community than previously thought who have a child with an autism spectrum disorder. As a personal observation, I have come into contact with two former colleagues both with children who have the disorder. My wish for all of you living with autism is that you will have access to timely and effective interventions. My wish for all Aspect’s committed staff is that you continue to find ways to make your vision come true: to overcome the isolation of autism.
I am inspired by the work that is being done by Aspect, and thank each and every one of you who supports this great organisation. Please continue to give generously so that more families living with this lifelong disability can take hope from seeing their son or daughter make progress.
With best wishes,
John Doyle
Patron
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