For years, ‘autism’ was one of those words in my vocabulary that I actually knew very little about. As mum to a child with Down Syndrome (DS), my world centered around the DS community. I had no reason to interact with the parents autistic children – I never thought I’d have much in common with them, or that autistic kids would have much in common with my son Mihaan. So, when I was looking for a buddy for Mihaan, and our pediatrician suggested he meet Vir, I wasn't quite sure about what to...

My son Mihaan, 21, is our family’s social butterfly. Armed with self-confidence, a gift of the gab and a cheeky sense of humour, he sets out each day on a charm offensive that disarms everyone he meets and melts even the hardest hearts. He thrives in company and is the self appointed social secretary of his friend group, and is constantly scouting for - or planning - the next big party. Mihaan (right) pictured with his buddy Vir who has Autism When I think back to my own childhood, I remember...