By Suzi Panovska | Published on September 14, 2020 | 4 Minute Read

Life has been a journey indeed and to me it’s just the beginning!

Being an Autism and Mental Health Advocate has always been a big part of my world since my oldest son Frankie was diagnosed. I sincerely know and believe Autistic people can enjoy the same rights, quality of life as any neurotypical person, with proper support and resources readily available.

Mental Health is extremely important for those living with autism and their parents/caregivers to ensure their emotional, psychological and social well-being. Being healthy emotionally can promote productivity and effectiveness especially for caregivers who feel helpless when caring for a child who has many special needs.

My son Frankie was diagnosed with severe autism at the age of three. His diagnosis was a relief because then we were able to focus on why and go from there. My husband and I spent and continue to spend a lot of money out of pocket to provide medically prescribed therapy for our son. We did everything we could financially to support the costly therapies. These therapies help our son have a better quality of life. Our sacrifices and Frankie’s hard work has tremendously given him so much today. A child who didn’t even know his name, today, excels and is extremely happy, learning more and more everyday. I have truly realized that little things matter and by loving and living life through my sons eyes is the best life I’ve been given.

Frankie continues his therapies and as his caregiver my husband and I made the decision of having to leave my career to be there for him. During this time I discovered how to make jewelry. I would play around with pieces and make little things, knitting, vinyl t-shirts, tutus and make stuff for sale and use all the profits towards Frankie’s therapies. This eventually evolved into my uniquely named small business “I do this for Frankie” (web: www.idothisforfrankie.store), personalized jewelry and keepsakes. With over 10,000 followers on social media I am so grateful for all of the support and at the same time I can spread awareness about autism, share my family lived experiences and advocate for children and adults living with autism in a peaceful way.

Thanks for taking the time to read this and I’ll leave you with one of my favourite quotes “Never stop learning because life never stops teaching.”

Suzi

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