The next time you're in a public area, look around. Find someone who may be struggling with the lights, sounds, or interactions. And if you can, lend a helping hand.
Here are some real-life examples of people helping the Neurodiverse community:
Stephen Wiltshire
As a child, Stephen Wiltshire couldn’t speak. Although, he sketched stunningly accurate images of wildlife and caricatures of his teachers.
His older sister took him to different places in London so he could sketch different buildings. One day, she took him on the 14th floor of an apartment building, so he could see a sprawling view of the city. He marveled at the layout and landmarks. From that point on, his passion became obsessive.
Today, he is one of Britain’s best-known artists. His commissions have a 4-8 month waiting list. Even his first commission was from the British prime minister.
Thanks to his sister, the world has an amazing artist.
Snow White Comforts Boy with Autism
When a mother brought her kids to see Snow White at Disney World, her son Brody began having a meltdown. She quickly explained to the staff that Brody was Autistic and nonverbal. While Brody cried hysterically, the actress playing Snow White consoled him and took his hand to go for a walk. The two even danced together.
Shortly thereafter, Brody calmed down and returned to his grateful mother to enjoy the rest of their trip.
In a Facebook post, Brody’s mother wrote, “The world needs more Snow Whites.”
Grocery Store Employee Helps a Teen with Autism
Sid Edwards and his son Jack Ryan Edwards, 17, visited their local Rouses Market in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Jack, who is on the Autism spectrum, noticed that one of the employees was stocking shelves in a fridge.
Jack was mesmerized. So the employee, 20-year-old Jordan Taylor, asked if he wanted to help.
Jack and Taylor stocked the shelves together for 30 minutes. Taylor retrieved and handed the products to Jack, who placed them in the fridge.
“It was a big deal,” Edwards said of seeing his son being able to help with the task. “To me, when you go to a grocery store with an Autistic kid, especially when they’re young, people don’t understand, they’re not very accepting. Somehow, this young man reached my son… he went into Jack Ryan’s world.”
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Today, look around for anyone needing help - and lend your hand.
