Director John Asher, known for his work on the film ‘A Boy Called Po’, shares profound insights about the realities of raising a child with autism, drawing from both his professional and personal experiences. The film, which was released on Netflix in 2016, is not just a creative endeavor for Asher; it is also a reflection of his journey as the father of his 14-year-old son, Evan, who is on the autism spectrum.
Asher’s driving force behind the film was to create an authentic narrative. He emphasizes that his intention was never to profit but to foster understanding within the community. “I wanted the autism community to embrace this film and validate it. What matters most to me is that people watch it, however they choose to,” he notes.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
In a heartfelt conversation, Asher shared his experience of early diagnosis, which he believes was crucial for Evan’s development. “When Evan was diagnosed around two-and-a-half, I feared for his future,” Asher recalls. “But now, he’s navigating high school independently, attending both special education and mainstream classes. It’s incredible to see.” His pride in his son’s progress is evident, yet he also offers a comforting message to parents facing uncertainty: “You have so much to look forward to.”
The Emotional Toll of Parenting
As the discussion turned to the emotional toll of parenting a child with autism, Asher opened up about the struggles that often accompany such a journey. He expressed that the challenges can strain relationships, particularly marriages. “The divorce rate among parents of children with autism is alarmingly high,” he said, resonating with many who feel the weight of these statistics.
When discussing the different coping styles of fathers and mothers, Asher reflected on societal expectations for men to maintain a facade of strength. “Men often feel the need to appear fine, even when they’re not,” he explained. “I wish I had communicated more openly about my fears to my partner.” He encourages parents to express their vulnerabilities, as sharing can lead to mutual support.
Finding Beauty Amidst Challenges
In ‘A Boy Called Po’, Asher illustrates the burden that comes with parenting a child with special needs, especially when one partner is absent, whether through loss or separation. He urges parents not to lose sight of the beauty their children bring into their lives, despite the challenges they face.
Asher’s message is clear: he hopes that ‘A Boy Called Po’ serves as a bridge for understanding, especially for those outside the autism community. “I want the film to provide insights for those who may not fully grasp what families like ours endure,” he stated. “It’s a tool for parents to share with friends and help them understand our realities.”
Additional Resources
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Conclusion
In summary, John Asher’s insights into autism parenting through ‘A Boy Called Po’ provide valuable perspectives for families navigating similar experiences. His commitment to authenticity and understanding offers hope and encouragement to those facing the challenges of raising children with autism.