06 Apr 2022

The decision to accept his son’s condition following his diagnosis with autism was a life-changing journey for Ms Ntlale Mokone as it helped her to create a life that she knew would easier for her son and those around him.

A mother to a 27-year-old autistic son, Ms Mokone shared her experience with attendants during the commemoration of World Autism Day in Gaborone on Saturday.
She said it was not an easy journey for her as she had to deal with issues of stigma, discrimination and financial constraints.

She, however, noted that accepting his son’s condition was a turning point as it played a crucial role not only in teaching and guiding the child, but in helping him understand himself.
“Through early intervention with the amazing host of therapists that worked with him upon being diagnosed, we overcame many obstacles.
I am blessed that God placed amazing people in our lives to help us navigate this life journey,” she said.

She said her son was diagnosed with developmental delay at 24 months, after realising that he had difficulties in attaining milestones among them to say the word mama, papa, or even yes, or no, and did not make eye contact.
Ms Mokone reminded other parents of the importance of acceptance, noting that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) was not curable, but that early intervention could work wonders for the child.
“Do not let the word autism give you a preconceived notion about the child’s abilities. Do not underestimate these children. See the able not the label in them,” she said.

The event themed: Inclusive Education for All, was a collaboration between Alliance Francaise and a non-profit organisation, Raising the Ladder.
They also joined forces with New Capitol Cinemas for the screening of a film to create awareness on autism, which was followed by a panel discussion of specialists from different fields.
In her remarks, Dr Imaan Dobah from Communicare Speech Therapy, also a member of Raising the Ladder emphasised the importance of early intervention, saying for now there was no scientific proof that Autism Spectrum Disorder was curable.

Dr Dobah explained that Autism Spectrum Disorder referred to a broad range of conditions characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication.
She said people with Autism Spectrum Disorder may communicate, interact, behave and learn differently while their learning, thinking and problem-solving abilities could also range from gifted to severely challenged. Dr Dobah urged parents to always mention their concerns of speech delay, poor eye contact and repetitive behaviours to paediatricians to help in diagnosing the child earlier.

“Remember not to be in denial, act promptly if there are any signs and do not be misled by those claiming to cure Autism Spectrum Disorder,” she said.
For her part, the cultural coordinator from Alliance Francaise, Ms Lesego Keeng noted that early intervention was important as it could help the child to speak, become social, and be self-sufficient.
World Autism day is commemorated every year on April 2, and April is Autism Spectrum Disorder  acceptance month, an opportunity to promote understanding and acceptance, spread awareness, ignite change, celebrate and support autistic people, she said. ENDS