Interview with James on 45th Autism Society of America National Conference Indianapolis

Today we pry into the thoughts of James on his recent trip to Indianapolis!

1. Thoughts on Long haul flights?
James: I dread long haul flight because using economy flights would result in neck and back pains, and I always hope to be allocated to the emergency role seats for more leg space. I still enjoy the food (Not sure if we’re all on the same note for plane food) that is served on board, the in-flight entertainment is one of the ways for me to catch up with the not so latest movies now that work and family has been priority.

2. What are some of the interesting learnings from the Autism Society National Conference?
James: The scale of the conference is really big and there is very much grass root involvement. There is a huge involvement from not only family members and parents, but also from individuals with ASD attending the conference, resulting in a very huge sense of inclusiveness. Different speakers shared a wide variety of perspectives and experiences, and the participants in the conference try to look for what works for them and find their own personal solutions. 

There were lots of emphasis on the importance to involve the whole community.  

3. Thoughts on the encounter with Temple Grandin
James: She is a very funny, amazing and inspirational person. I did not expect her to be so funny, cracking jokes in her speech for the conference, and she talks really fast as well. When I interact with her, it felt like I am interacting with someone who have achieved great things in life and give huge inspiration to others, not interacting someone who has Autism.

4. The conference participants' thoughts on T.Jacket
James: The founder of the Autism Society in America- Ruth Sullivan, commented to Temple Grandin that T.Jacket was “just like her squeeze machine!” We think that it is Temple Grandin’s squeeze machine just that it is more mobile and easier to use.

It is also fashionable, and kids will take to it. A parent who had a squeeze machine upon seeing T.jacket was so excited she brought her daughter back to buy the jacket. The daughter had a positive response immediately and was hesitant to take it off after the demo! Temple Grandin herself tried it and felt that the T.jacket was giving sufficient pressure too.



We at T.Ware are really humbled by the experience to share with the US community, and have found this to be a very enriching Journey!