Simone Abrahamsohn, a Toronto resident, shared her experience of losing her mother and taking on the role of her older brother’s primary caregiver. The challenge involves creating a harmonious living arrangement for two middle-aged neurodivergent siblings. Despite the difficulties, Abrahamsohn cherishes the companionship of her brother Stuart, who enjoys pistachio milkshakes, podcasts about violinists, and has a contagious giggle.
Stuart, who is autistic and a survivor of a left-brain stem stroke, requires specialized care due to hand tremors, wheelchair assistance, and emotional sensitivity to loud noises. Abrahamsohn reflects on their childhood, recalling moments of embarrassment when friends misunderstood Stuart’s behaviors. As an adult, she acknowledges similarities with Stuart, such as her efforts to conceal her ADHD tendencies and manage her emotions.
To maintain a peaceful living environment, Abrahamsohn minimizes her ADHD-related behaviors that may trigger Stuart’s reactions. She acknowledges societal influences that led her to distance herself from Stuart’s experiences in the past. As she embraces their unique bond, she advocates for Stuart’s agency in decision-making and strives to be an attentive caregiver.
Despite sacrifices like giving up acting classes to care for Stuart, Abrahamsohn prioritizes their relationship. By adjusting schedules, seeking external assistance, and fostering a positive mindset, she aims to create a supportive environment for both siblings. Through this journey, she seeks to make amends for past misunderstandings and embrace the opportunity to care for Stuart in a meaningful way.