Meet Ashton A-F

When Ashton was first diagnosed with autism at the age of four, his parents were unsure of the implications that the diagnosis would have for his future. As he entered school, it was apparent that general education classes were challenging for him, and he often felt misunderstood and left out. However, thanks to a variety of life-changing resources and sense of community provided through his school and Autism Speaks, Ashton now 19, has found his rhythm.

The Rivera Beach, Florida native and passionate self-advocate says he uses music, particularly his guitar, to express himself, finding his true voice within each note. His story is a testament to how you can achieve great things regardless of labels and challenges life throws your way, if you’re willing to put in the work.

“Music has made me more confident and joyful as an autistic individual. Music has made me forget about my personal struggles and has made me strive to become a better version of myself. Whenever I feel bored or have some free time, I either listen to music on my phone or play my guitar.”

We sat down with Ashton to discuss his journey and what being an autistic person in the Hispanic community means to him, how music changed his life and how the support of Autism Speaks helped him become the best version of himself.

What are you most proud of as a Hispanic autistic self-advocate?

It is crucial to make my voice heard so that others can listen to my story and help improve the lives of others in any way that I can. One thing I am most proud of about being a Hispanic autistic self-advocate is knowing that I am not alone, and I can be someone anybody can look up to. Being open and honest about my story also gives an insight into who I truly am as a person, and how my life changed when I started viewing my diagnosis in a positive light.

What can be done to better the availability of services for autistic individuals in the Hispanic community?

Improving the availability of services in the Hispanic community for starters. Having more resources available, hiring service providers who have shared experiences and can relate to the people they are working with. Overall, I think it comes down to there being more awareness in the Hispanic community – more acceptance and less stigma would go a long way.  

When did you first understand what it means to be autistic?

When I started hearing other people's stories on how they used their diagnosis to achieve great things. After learning what it meant to be autistic, I felt like I could be more of myself to people, and I didn't need to worry about what others say about me.

What resources did you utilize after you were diagnosed, whether that be in school or as an adult?

After being diagnosed, I started taking advantage of the different types of accommodations I’d have available in school. In high school, an inclusion teacher would check on me and others in one or two of my classes. I also got permission to head to lunch early in middle and high school. I would get pulled out of class to be one-on-one with a speech-language pathologist. I even had a class in high school called "Learning Strategies" that taught me how to behave appropriately when dealing with stressful situations.

What are some of the challenges that you’ve faced as an autistic individual and how did you persevere?

The challenges I faced with my physical health were not eating the right foods, constantly snacking during the day, being unwilling to exercise or play with other kids among other things.  I also faced challenges with mental health challenges at various points in my journey. I overcame these challenges by motivating myself to spend more time planning and thinking about what my future would look like if I continue this path. In my sophomore year of high school, I found Christianity because of how my life was at that point. However, I didn't get serious about it until my first year of college.

How has Autism Speaks helped you along your autism journey?

My connection to Autism Speaks is when I attend my local Field Day For All and Walk event every year. It brings me a sense of community and shows me there are so many other people and families in similar situation. Autism Speaks touched the lives of others by acknowledging people's perspectives and working on possible solutions to help accommodate everyone. 

Hear from Ashton in this edition of Just Another Autism Podcast