By Parm Bhullar | Published on August 10, 2020 | 3 Minute Read

Tell me a little bit about you and your son. What do you think makes him special?

My name is Parm and I work as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher. I also have my own blog where I share my experiences as a mother of a child with special needs. My son’s name is Avraj and he is 3 years old. Avraj happens to be on the Autism Spectrum. What makes Avraj special is his happy demeanour. He is just the most sociable little guy and loves being around people. He also has the biggest sense of humour! He loves making everyone laugh.

If there was one thing that you would tell people who don’t know anything about autism, what would you tell them?

Never judge a book by its cover. No two people on the spectrum are the same. If you’ve met one person with Autism, you’ve only met that ONE person.

How important is mental health in your life? What do you do to live a healthy life?

Mental health is extremely important to me. Working a high stress job, being a mom and suffering from my own mental health issues has taught me to prioritize self care. The way I manage my mental health is through daily exercise, eating a healthy diet and ensuring I get in some “me time” everyday.

How important is it for you to spread awareness and find common ground within the special needs community?

I believe it’s very important to spread awareness. We need to promote inclusivity and celebrate neurodiversity. It’s important to our children’s future that they grow up in a world that accepts them as they are. It’s also very important to find common ground as a community so that we are spreading the same message and supportive of one another.

What advice would you give to empower parents who have children with autism?

Take it one day at a time. Progress happens, it’s very gradual, but it’s there! Focus on the present. Do not underestimate your child’s capability. They will surprise you and amaze you! Never give up hope.

Who are the people in your life who have helped you become the person you are today?

I’d have to say it’s all thanks to Avraj. I would never be the woman I am today if it were not for him. Motherhood and Autism have truly opened my eyes and helped me find my real purpose and direction in life. I am forever grateful to be Avraj’s mom.

What is one common myth about autism that you think is not true?

Autistic people are not social. That is so far from the truth. The truth is, they’re a lot like us. They crave love and acceptance as much as the next person. They are capable of having friendships and romantic relationships.

What and where are the best resources that have helped you along the way?

Books! I am a book lover so I literally hit the books for everything and anything in life. Secondly, other families! One piece of advice I have to offer is to find your Autism tribe! There’s nothing like having friends that are on the same journey as you. Build your community! Other parents can be very helpful and resourceful (especially if their kids are older). They’ve literally been there and done it!

Where can our readers connect with you online?

You can find me on Instagram at @momlife.specialedition

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