Autism Through the Lifespan
As an older adult with Autism Spectrum Disorder with over 30 years’ experience supporting and advocating for other individuals with ASD and their families, Thomas has a unique perspective. In this presentation, Thomas will address the issues and needs of individuals with autism across the lifespan, including the needs of families with young children, navigating adolescence and the transition to adulthood, and the growing need to support aging adults with ASD. This presentation, infused with Thomas’s experiences of living with ASD, will encompass topics such as employment, social connections, and achieving a good quality of life.
About Thomas
Thomas was diagnosed with autism in 1979, at the age of 14. He has over thirty years’ experience advocating for those with autism and supporting families and professionals to do the same. He first entered the world of advocacy not long after learning of his own diagnosis in 1991, by participating in parent support groups throughout Ohio. Shortly thereafter, Thomas was speaking throughout the United States and Canada, alongside other well-known advocates Sean Barron, Donna Williams, and Dr. Temple Grandin. Thomas served two non-consecutive terms on the Board of Directors of the Autism Society of America (ASA) and, during his time on the board, helped to establish April as Autism Awareness Month and the colorful puzzle piece logo. He has written two books detailing his experiences with and knowledge of autism, provided consultative services to families and schools, and was featured on NPR and the Oprah Winfrey Show. Semi-retired, living in Central Ohio, and serving on the Board of Directors of the Autism Society of Ohio, Thomas continues to advocate for those with autism, particularly children who are severely impacted and their parents, through a variety of activities, including regular podcast appearances, writing for the National Council on Severe Autism, social media, and his Patreon. Well known for his kind, compassionate, and generous nature, particularly in relation to the experiences of parents raising children with severe autism, an opportunity to listen to and engage with Thomas is not to be missed! Learn more about Thomas at http://www.thomasamckean.com.
