2nd April: World Autism Awareness Day
Autism does not need Sympathy, but it needs Sensitivity
The Story of Herik Jariwala & His Mom
We are reminded that healing does not always come from medicine alone. Sometimes, it comes from acceptance, warmth, and unwavering love. In the bustling lanes of Gopipura in Surat, lives 11-year-old Herik Jariwala, a child who sees the world a little differently, yet beautifully. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Herik’s journey is not defined by limitations, but by colours, resilience, and a mother’s relentless belief.
Like many working mothers, 30-year-old Gayatri Jariwala balanced her professional life while nurturing her newborn son. At just nine months old, Herik was placed in daycare under the care of a familiar caregiver. Everything seemed routine until subtle differences began to surface. By the age of two-and-a-half, when Herik started preschool, his behavior stood apart. He struggled to connect, avoided playing with other children, and often failed to respond to verbal cues or gestures. His teachers noticed. So did his mother. In 2018, after consulting a psychologist, the diagnosis was clear Herik was on the Autism Spectrum.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is not a disease but a developmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. Each child experiences it differently as some may be withdrawn, others hyperactive, and many face challenges in expressing or understanding emotions. Early signs often include delayed responses, sleep disturbances, sensitivity, and difficulty engaging socially.
For Gayatri, the diagnosis was not a setback but it was a turning point. Coming from a modest financial background, she chose not to succumb to fear or societal judgment. Instead, she embraced her child as he was, committing herself to his growth with patience and love. Herik began therapy at Sarnath Child Development Trust, where child-friendly interventions started showing gradual improvement in his behavior and responsiveness. But the real transformation happened at home. Gayatri turned everyday life into a learning space, introducing puzzles, colour blocks, vision boards, and interactive cards. Slowly, she discovered something extraordinary. Much like the iconic character ‘Ishan’ from Taare Zameen Par, Herik also found expression where words failed him. He could identify and differentiate between multiple shades of colours with remarkable precision and something even adults often struggle with. Colours became his language, his comfort, his identity. Through paints and patterns, Herik began to communicate with the world.
And the second side of coin described different situation. In other words the journey, however, wasn’t without hardships. Social gatherings became difficult. Misunderstanding and insensitive behavior from peers and even neighbors added emotional strain. Yet, Gayatri stood firm in her belief that: “A child is a gift from God. No matter how they are, it is our duty as parents to accept and nurture them.”
During the COVID-19 lockdown, while the world paused, Gayatri intensified her efforts using the time to further develop Herik’s cognitive and emotional abilities. Her message to other parents is simple yet powerful: “Focus not on the child’s limitations, but on their hidden strengths.”
According to child specialist Dr. Hina Desai, autism is increasingly observed in children between the ages of one to three, and in some cases, in premature births. “Early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial,” she emphasizes. “A supportive home environment, balanced nutrition, and physical activity play a vital role in a child’s overall development.” Echoing this, counsellor Amitaben Mehta from Sarnath Child Development Trust highlights the importance of early identification and structured therapy. She also advocates for regular cognitive assessments in schools to detect developmental delays early.
In Surat district alone, dozens of autism cases have been recorded in recent years reflecting a growing need for awareness, acceptance, and support systems. Government initiatives like the Niramaya Scheme and financial assistance programs are helping families access treatment and care. Yet, the real change begins at home with understanding and empathy.
Children like Herik are not defined by what they lack, but by what they uniquely possess. Given the right environment, they can laugh, learn, and live just like any other child. As we observe World Autism Awareness Day, Herik’s story reminds us of a simple truth: Love, patience, and acceptance are often the most powerful therapies of all.
