Autism Advocacy
An Autism Interview
with
John Hale
By Derrick Hayes
Encouragement Speaker Derrick Hayes gives an AUTISM interview by asking six questions through each letter in the word AUTISM to give readers an insightful perspective from parents , experts , entrepreneurs , and other leaders in the field .
John Hale was born in Dallas , TX . He is 52 years old and has a wife and three kids , all under five years . His daughter Rachel is a twin and she is autistic . John is involved in the Foundation for Fighting Blindness . He was voted a board member for Firefly Autism in April 2019 and loves participating in the organization . John enjoys the outdoors , hiking , traveling , fitness , and spending time with his family .
is for Awareness - When and how did you first become aware that something was different ?
When she was six months old , we noticed she did not make eye contact . At around 12-18 months we knew something was off and we looked for guidance and started researching how to get her evaluated . is for Unique - How has this experience been Unique for you and your child ?
Rachel has taught me that which I take for granted . Moving in and out of transitions is easy for me , but can be uncomfortable for her . The anxiety it causes her has taught me how to strategically plan for an outing , some as small as going to the store , others as big as a trip to grandma ’ s .