For 54 year old Arsenal Whittick, who has autism, life can be defined by his befores and afters.

For Arsenal’s daughters, Samantha and Danielle, hugs weren’t a part of their nurturing. And that lack of intimacy was one of the reasons Samantha took herself upstairs one dark November day and tried to take her own life.

Following the suicide attempt the family had counselling. The Clinical Psychologist was quick to send Arsenal for referral after learning of his rigid routines and uncompromising behaviour. Following assessment, 6 Months later, Arsenal was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Arsenal has a thing for dates and can tell you without hesitation all the milestones of his life and the full dates on which they occurred. The 26th May 2011 was a life changing day. After diagnosis the family started to find their way, tiny step by tiny step. Arsenal received Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and had regular support.

Arsenal now sets himself daily challenges helping him overcome his desire for discipline and exactitude. Every Thursday he can be found at the local post office buying just one second class stamp, forcing himself to endure the human contact in the queue and the stress of being in an environment he can’t control. 

From being a disengaged, emotionally absent man, On Christmas Day 2014, Arsenal conquered one of his biggest challenges. He hugged his children for the first time. 

Celebrating Autism Wessex's 50th Anniversary, Arsenal has set himself the goal of hugging as many people as possible, taking place at Bournemouth University on April 19th 2018, with the aim to raise awareness and improve the lives of those with Autism.

To read Arsenal's full story, follow this link: https://www.autismwessex.org.uk/stories/3-i-never-hugged-my-children-not-ever-not-once

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