Insight into autism

Neerim South resident Tristan Throup has written a unique book providing insight into life with autism.

Diagnosed with autism at age five, Mr Throup has shared firsthand experiences to help people with autism and their families as well as raise community awareness.

His book, “Autism as a Disability?”, will be launched at Warragul Library on Wednesday, March 21.

The 28-year-old started writing in 2014 with the concept of a book about autism from a personal point of view.

“Also, I felt like I needed to let people know more about autism; it’s not recognised much. I just wanted to increase awareness and acceptance.”

The book is Mr Throup’s first and there could be more to come.

He said limited communication skills was his biggest hurdle to overcome.

“I couldn’t stand up to people mean to me at school.”

However, the former Neerim South Primary School and Neerim South Secondary College student now has a job and aims for a bigger part-time role.

Asked if autism awareness was increasing, Mr Throup said “at the moment it’s getting there, slowly.”

“Don’t always cast a shadow of doubt with people with autism. I demonstrate in the book that people with autism can be helpful and contribute to society…once they get confidence.”

Mr Throup said his message to others with autism was “build up skills to follow your dreams”.

“Autism as a Disability?” is available at Need2Read, Warragul for about $22 and online via Amazon.

Artists at the official opening of the Burnt Store Art Space are (from left) Kerrie Warren, Phil Henshall, Gary Miles, Laurie Collins, Judy Mackintosh, Wayne Foenander, Laurel Foenander, Graeme Myrteza, Lynne Bickhoff, Graham Duell and Christine...

Diagnosed with autism at age five, Tristan Throup of Neerim South is increase awareness and acceptance of autism with his insightful book “Autism as a Disability?”