William Ashmore

A father has spent over 10 years caring for his autistic daughter, who requires 24/7 supervision, even while she sleeps. Finding people willing and qualified to care for her because of her behavioural challenges has become increasingly difficult. He says his family constantly has to explain their situation to people who don’t understand what they are going through. He also says some police officers, courts and judges fail to understand the realities families living with severe autism face. People often witness a few minutes of a situation and make assumptions without knowing the years of challenges behind it. On this particular night, what was supposed to be a simple family dinner turned into a report of a “man kidnapping a young girl.” Police responded, and a helicopter was seen flying overhead. The man was actually her father, trying to keep his autistic daughter safe. He says there is no clocking out or taking a break. Caring for his daughter is a 24-hour responsibility, seven days a week. He loves his daughter deeply, but admits that love does not erase exhaustion or create the resources, trained caregivers and support his family desperately needs. His message is simple: families raising children with severe autism need understanding, empathy, trained support and people willing to listen instead of judging them.