Write to the Editor

I really enjoyed last week’s edition of GulfWeekly, particularly the front page story headlined ‘Plea for support’. I have a 10-year-old autistic nephew back in the UK and he is simply a joy to be around, but, because of his condition, he can sometimes be a handful.
 
It is often very challenging to care for an autistic child, but the rewards of doing so are beyond profound. Each child is unique but with the right support they all have the potential to live highly functional and fulfilling lives.

Dramatic improvement and even recovery from some of the disabling features of autism are possible thanks to specialist schools such as the Alia School for Early Intervention which caters to the children’s individual needs.

My nephew has come along in leaps and bounds since starting at a similar specialist school in the UK. He is now stringing together entire phrases and even interacting with people in ways I never dreamed possible.

While much of the credit must go to my brother and his wife for their unwavering dedication and love, I know that the school has played a pivotal role in helping him come out of his shell.

There really aren’t enough words to describe the admiration I have for the amazing staff at specialist facilities such as the Alia School. Autism is not just an individual disability, it’s a family disorder that permanently changes everyone involved.

I hope the school can find sponsors for the children, these youngsters and their families deserve all the support they can get. Keep up the good work!

Les Paul,
By email.