A Sibling Bond Shaped by Autism

In neurodivergent families, the spotlight often falls on the child with autism, leaving the experiences of neurotypical siblings in the shadows. We had the opportunity to meet Ava Chan, founder of Neurodiversity HK, to explore her journey growing up alongside her twin brother on the spectrum.

Ava’s story reveals the unique challenges and deep bonds she shares with her brother. Raised in Los Angeles before relocating to Hong Kong in middle school, her childhood was rich with unique experiences. “People always asked if we had twin telepathy,” she laughs, recalling the playful moments. This expectation motivated her to include her brother in everything, even when he couldn't always participate.

Navigating Challenges and Building Bonds

Navigating a world of communication barriers was challenging due to her brother’s early diagnosis. “Sometimes including him in activities didn’t always work because it wasn’t what he wanted to do,” Ava shares. Yet, as they grew, they found ways to connect and cherish moments uniquely theirs. “It’s not the typical sibling relationship, where we share a bunch of secrets, but it’s a special bond,” she says warmly.

Balancing Roles: Sibling and Caregiver

A common challenge in neurodivergent families is the attention devoted to the child with autism, which can leave the neurotypical sibling feeling sidelined. However, Ava never felt neglected. “I was never overlooked by my parents. They did a great job of including me in my brother’s therapy sessions. I’d go there, and there would be toys for me too,” she recalls gratefully.

Balancing her role as a sibling and a caregiver is another challenge, especially when they venture out as teenagers. “When we’re outside by ourselves, I need to make sure he doesn’t wander off or that people treat him kindl

Advocacy Through Neurodiversity HK

As the founder of Neurodiversity HK, Ava channels her experiences into advocacy. “I wanted to create a space where neurodiversity is celebrated,” she explains passionately. The student-led organization raises awareness with chapters in Hong Kong and internationally, providing recreational activities for neurodivergent students. Ava is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can connect and thrive.

Fostering Awareness and Acceptance

Ava’s experiences highlight the often invisible nature of autism within families and her work aims to change perceptions and foster a more inclusive future.  Understanding and support are crucial in unlocking potential and building a community where everyone feels valued:

A Vision for an Inclusive Future

Her message is clear: “Everyone is different, and that’s okay.” Through her advocacy, Ava strives to bring attention to the need for embracing diversity and celebrating individuality. Her journey offers a glimpse into the world of neurodiversity, reminding us of the beauty in accepting differences and building connections in unexpected ways.

For Ava, the future is bright with possibilities. She dreams of expanding Neurodiversity HK’s initiatives, offering more programs that bridge gaps and create meaningful opportunities. Her passion and dedication inspire others to join her cause, fostering a sense of hope and progress.

In sharing her story, Ava provides a beacon of hope for families navigating similar paths. Her experiences encourage us to look beyond challenges and see the potential for growth and understanding. With empathy and perseverance, Ava shows us that an inclusive future is within reach, one where all children can shine and thrive.