Tharsiny’s Story

Tharsiny’s daughter Asha, now 16, is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Moving back to Canada after having lived in Sri Lanka for many years has hugely improved Asha’s learning experience due to greater options and services, but Tharsiny admits social integration can be very challenging. People are often accommodating towards physical disabilities, but when it comes to developmental disabilities, it is much less visible and much harder to understand. Thankfully, knowledge has increased over the years and with that, inclusion and acceptance.

“There’s lots of services and support in Canada, but I think the community still needs to step in and bridge the gap,” Ms. Markandu explains. Instead of people with special needs changing to fit into society, maybe society needs to change and open itself to differences. Parents can’t do it alone; they need support from family, the community and specialized programs.

Upon being asked what is one thing on Asha’s Christmas List, Tharsiny suggests a music therapy session. Music is a tool for connection and something that children respond well to. It is important to have a holistic approach for special needs, it is more impactful than just learning functional skills. “ I truly believe that music is a doorway to their soul,” she says firmly.