A question pops up at the doorstep

Parents of children on the spectrum consider the pandemic a ‘wake-up call’

Parents of those on the autism spectrum obsess over one question — “What after us?” In most cases, the chilling thought is projected deep into the future. The pandemic has brought it awkwardly and uncomfortable close. Kavitha Krishnamoorthy, co-director of Thiruvanmiyur-based The CanBridge Academy, which offers a “space for young adults with autism to explore skills”, explains: “What the second wave is really bringing home to the community — parents and professionals working in the community — very clearly is the possibility of the death of the primary caregiver.” In groups run for the community, there are messages that bring such dismal tidings — at least one a week, she points out.