In Bolivia, HI is supporting Hector, a child with autism, and his family

Understanding and supporting Hector

Hector is a curious, sensitive child who perceives the world in his own unique way. His hypersensitivity to sound and light, his high energy level and moments of intense concentration are part of what makes him special. He often expresses himself with his body, and struggles to keep still.

“When Hector was 4, he had to take his preschool classes online because of the pandemic. The light from the screen and the noise of the virtual classroom really made him agitated; that was a hard time,” recalls Maria.

When he returned to school after the pandemic, his parents noticed that he had trouble making friends, and that some of the adults around him didn't always understand his behaviour. Then, one day at home, Héctor had his first epileptic seizure. Worried, his parents took him to a major health centre where, after a number of tests, he was diagnosed with autism, epilepsy and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

This announcement was a tremendous shock for Maria. But she decided to focus on what was most important: understanding her son and supporting him in his development.

Unconditional love

Maria has always wanted the best for her children. Trained as a physiotherapist, she decided to stop work and spend her days with Hector.

“When I was told that he would need lifelong support, everything changed. But instead of letting myself be overwhelmed by worry, I chose to move forward with him. My son deserves to be happy, and I'll do anything to make that happen.”

In pre-school, Héctor thrived on learning, but his boundless energy and spontaneity were sometimes misunderstood. Maria was always having to explain to teachers and other parents that her son simply needed the right environment, patience and kindness.

A united family

Faced with the challenges of everyday life, Maria, her husband and their eldest son Mateo have learned to support each other. Hector's diagnosis was a kay development not only for Maria, but for the whole family.

“We had to explain to our relatives, to the teachers and also to the parents of his classmates that his behaviour was not a problem, but a way of interacting with the world.”

Mateo, who adores his little brother, sometimes had trouble dealing with the reactions of the other children. He wanted to protect Hector, but this sometimes isolated him.

“At first, he felt rejected by some of his classmates. He didn't understand why others didn't see Hector as the brother he knew. Today, he is working with a psychologist, which helps him to express his emotions and feel calmer”.

Despite these difficult experiences, the bond between Mateo and Hector is stronger than ever. They share a precious bond of play, laughter and mutual support.

Parent-to-parent support: an important turning point

One day, a neighbour, whose son is also autistic, told Maria about HI's workshops. These meetings with other parents proved invaluable to her. “I found a space where I could talk freely, without fear of judgment. I realised that I wasn't alone and that other families were going through the same things we were.”

Maria enjoys attending these workshops, often accompanied by her sons. Mateo and Hector can meet other children and play with them, while Maria talks with parents who are going through similar experiences. “It's good for all of us. Héctor feels accepted, Mateo too, and I take away new ideas and new tools to help my son in his daily life.”

“I now understand that my son has a disability, but that he can do the same things as other children, and that with the support of his family and organisations like HI, he can achieve anything he sets his mind to,” says Maria.

Looking towards the future

Thanks to these meetings and HI's support, Maria has changed the way she sees things.

“I now know that my son can do anything, in his own way and at his own pace. With support and understanding, he can fulfil his dreams just like any other child.” She also knows that society still needs to evolve to make space for children like Hector, but she feels up to the challenge.

“One day, while we were playing, Hector hugged me tightly and said, “Mom, you're not sad anymore, now you're happy.” He was right: today I'm happy.

In this family, love and solidarity are the key. Together, they move forward, learn and champion a world where everyone has their place.