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House Hansard - 55

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
April 7, 2022 10:00AM
Context: House Hansard - 55 - Apr/7/22
Hon. Mike Lake (Edmonton—Wetaskiwin, CPC)
  • Apr/7/22 2:20:03 p.m.
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Mr. Speaker, last Saturday was World Autism Awareness Day and 24 years since my son, Jaden, was diagnosed. Jaden would normally be in Ottawa with me, but last week, he tested positive for COVID. He has bounced back quickly, but sadly is not able to travel. As the years go by, we learn more about autism and both the strengths and challenges that come with the label; still, so much remains unknown. Thankfully, more and more autistic Canadians are sharing their stories, and mysteries that we once only viewed as problems to be solved we are learning to embrace, as diversity that enriches our entire human experience. Some of my favourite moments are spent sitting beside Jaden and just being with him, looking into each other's eyes with smiles on both of our faces. We are content with the part of each other that remains unknown. There is so much I do not know in those moments, but I am intensely aware that Jaden loves me. Through a connection I could never begin to explain, I know that he knows I love him. There is no knowledge more important to me than that.
194 words
  • Hear!
  • Rabble!
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