World Autism Awareness Day (2 April 2025) - Fakhri Ihsan
Fakhri (first row, 2nd from left) and his family
World Autism Awareness Day (2 April 2025): Fakhri’s Journey with Autism
This World Autism Awareness Day, we share Fakhri’s inspiring story – Fakhri is a resilient 13-year-old boy whose journey has been shaped by love, perseverance, and the unwavering support of his family and Club Rainbow (Singapore).
Born on August 2, 2012, Fakhri is the sixth child in a bustling household. With both parents working, much of his early care was entrusted to their helper, and to keep him engaged, he was given a mobile phone. Over time, screen time became a major concern, and coupled with his introverted nature, it became apparent that Fakhri was facing developmental challenges.
When he was two years old, Fakhri missed his developmental assessment, and his teachers noted his minimal communication. As parents of six, his family assumed he would naturally adjust, just as his older siblings had. It wasn’t until their helper left and a close friend - a nurse, took notice of Fakhri’s behaviour that they were encouraged to seek an evaluation.
Receiving a diagnosis of mild Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) was a turning point. It brought clarity to the challenges they faced, from intense meltdowns in public to difficulties with daily activities like taking transport. Understanding that Fakhri’s frustrations were not simply tantrums, but rather expressions of his struggles, changed the way his family supported him.
Fakhri’s inquisitive nature often leads to unexpected adventures – some of which have tested his parents’ patience! From pouring a whole box of Milo cereal onto the table to cracking 30 eggs into the rice cooker, his curiosity has led to many memorable moments. Inspired by online videos, he once turned the kitchen into a water play zone using the bidet spray, pretending to be a firefighter. While managing his boundless energy can be exhausting, his family embraces each challenge with love, finding ways to guide and support him in appropriate ways.
Toilet training was one of Fakhri’s biggest milestones. Initially struggling with it at home, his transition to Eden School made a remarkable difference. By his third day there, he confidently requested to attend school without a diaper and began informing teachers when he needed the restroom. It was a proud and emotional moment for his family, proving that with the right environment and encouragement, he could achieve significant milestones.
Club Rainbow (Singapore) became a part of Fakhri’s life in 2016, thanks to a referral from Fei Yue Community Services. Even before officially joining, Fakhri had participated in Club Rainbow’s events, and from the start, the organisation became a pillar of strength for the family.
One particularly unforgettable moment happened during a family day event in Yishun, hosted by Gurmit Singh. There, Fakhri saw a pond meant for net fishing – but instead of catching fish, he jumped right in! His family didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, but the warm response from other parents reassured them. Instead of judgment, they were met with words of encouragement: “It’s okay, your son is having fun.” This moment solidified the importance of being in a community that truly understands and supports one another.
Another cherished experience was the Club Rainbow Family Retreat cruise in December 2022. After the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, this trip allowed them to bond and create beautiful memories. Each Club Rainbow event is more than just an activity – it is an opportunity to connect, learn, and grow alongside others who share similar experiences.
Fakhri enjoys spending time on his mobile phone, but his family is still exploring hobbies that could truly spark his interest. While he has yet to express his personal dreams, his family hopes he will discover a passion that inspires him. Their greatest wish is for him to grow into an independent and self-sufficient individual, integrating into society with confidence and purpose.
As a family, they are immensely grateful for the kindness and generosity of Club Rainbow’s donors and sponsors, whose contributions make a world of difference. A special note of appreciation goes to their dedicated social worker, Joy, whose unwavering support has guided them through countless challenges. Her dedication to keeping them informed, assisting with applications, and ensuring that they receive the right support has made a profound impact on their journey.
Fakhri’s story is a reminder that every child with autism is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, and potential. As we observe World Autism Awareness Day, let us continue to foster understanding, celebrate the progress of individuals with ASD, and support families on this journey.
World Autism Awareness Day was declared to be held on 2 April of every year by The United Nations General Assembly. It highlights the need to help improve the quality of life of individuals with autism, so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society. Autism is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood, and the term Autism Spectrum refers to a range of characteristics. With appropriate support, accommodation and acceptance of this neurological variation, individuals on the Spectrum can enjoy equal opportunity, and full and effective participation in society.
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