Nicholas will discuss his life via his art, his love for Disney, as well as illustrate how, via a natural circle of support from his community he has been able to achieve so much more than he, or his family had ever imagined.  He will also discuss his struggles, his triumphs, and provide examples of how he has learned to advocate for himself through self determination as a teen.  His parents will also discuss a couple of interventions that have assisted him through some tough times when entering puberty as well as provide strategies to assist others in how to best provide supports during this time.  Nicholas will also provide a top ten list of how to not use autism as an excuse.   This is something he developed through his IEP and a positive behavior support plan.

Alexander’s take will be from a sibling point of view.  Being only sixteen months older than his brother with ASD, Alexander will discuss being that barometer for his parents on developmental milestones that Nicholas could strive for over the years.  He will provide his take as well for parents, siblings, and individuals with autism to best be able to live within the whirlwind of an active family attempting to meet each others needs, while still having ASD in the mix.  Alex will also provide strategies on how to prepare for leaving home, and going from being a constant support to being a person who now has to contribute long distance.  There will also be a new top ten list of reasons having a brother with ASD is an asset and can be a very rewarding and life altering experience for siblings.

The family will also discuss community awareness and advocacy efforts they have developed to ensure that not only Nicholas will be embraced by his community, but to also provide a pathway for others.   They will also blend their humor with real life drama that in the past has had attendees laughing, crying, and expressing appreciation for the inspiration and hope that can be achieved when sharing what life is like when living with autism.