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Earlier this year, Harry was diagnosed with autism by our in-house team of specialists at Caudwell Children. His parents had recognised from a young age that he would need additional support to thrive and reach his full potential, gaining a better understanding of the world around him. We interviewed Harry’s dad, Dave, who shared their journey with Caudwell Children.
Here’s Harry’s story:
What was life like before Caudwell Children?
Harry is our only child, but from a young age we knew he was different. Around Covid time, Harry was due to start nursery but when we discussed this with him, he never seemed interested in going. We visited a couple of nurseries but none of them seemed right for Harry. I’m a stay-at-home dad so I decided to stay at home a little longer with him. We continued to notice little things he was doing and thinking he is different.
How did you hear about Caudwell Children?
We were looking for a new hoover and because they aren’t the cheapest things in the world, decided to look in charity shops and on Gumtree for second-hand machines. We found a hoover and travelled to a lady’s house in Ipswich to pick it up. When I arrived with Harry the lady immediately noticed that he was different and it was because her son was diagnosed with autism and showed similar traits to Harry. The lady’s son and Harry instantly connected which was amazing to see as Harry usually found it hard to connect with other children as he never really understood them. She then told me about Caudwell Children and how they had used their services.
How has Caudwell Children supported Harry and your family?
I rang Caudwell Children, unsure what to ask but the team was incredible and they actually listened to me and talked me through the autism assessment process. They were so patient and let me ask as many questions as I wanted. Caudwell Children genuinely cared about Harry and us as a family.
On the autism assessment day, Harry was really anxious and I couldn’t put him at ease, all I could say was that I will be with you and you won’t be on your own. Harry chose to wear his favourite outfit, top hat and tails as he loves Fred Astaire. When we arrived at the Caudwell International Children’s Centre reception, the receptionist greeted Harry by saying “wow I love your outfit, it’s amazing.” Harry had also brought a hoover with him as this is another one of his passions. There wasn’t any judgement from the receptionist, he was just very supportive and approachable.
After the assessment, the post-diagnosis support was incredible, we were sent a comprehensive report and were told if there was anything we were unsure of just to contact Family Support and they would be more than happy to help. We really do feel a part of the Caudwell Children Family. Jack from Family Supported pointed us in the way of Workshops, which we are looking forward to attending as a family.
What would you say to other families looking for support?
I would say don’t hesitate to contact Caudwell Children, just give them a call because they are very supportive and will guide you. It’s a tough process but the staff at Caudwell Children will help you through it, they understand. They really are the experts when it comes to autism and know what to do when it comes to meltdowns and how you can help your child.
To find out more about our Autism Assessments service for your child, please click here.