Finding His Voice-Aariz’s Story
Aariz is ten and a half, and life in his home moves to a rhythm shaped by patience, repetition, and quiet determination. Living with autism and profound neurological challenges affecting his cortex and midbrain, communication has been one of Aariz’s greatest daily hurdles. Words do not come easily. Expressing needs, sharing thoughts, or being understood by others requires effort, creativity, and constant support from those closest to him—especially his mother, who organizes much of their day around helping Aariz engage with the world.
Before progress became visible, daily life often revolved around managing frustration—Aariz knowing what he wanted to say but unable to say it aloud. Social interactions could be exhausting. Simple milestones others take for granted demanded focused energy, adaptive tools, and emotional resilience from both child and parent. Even so, his family never mistook silence for lack of understanding. They leaned into structure and consistency, believing Aariz’s voice was still forming.
Growing Skills, Strengthening Confidence
Over the past months, meaningful changes have taken shape. Aariz has grown neurologically by six months, a shift reflected not just in numbers but in how he moves, learns, and connects. He reads at age level and communicates thoughtfully using a facilitated communication board—clearly expressing ideas, answering questions, and engaging with those who take the time to listen. Physically, he has gained balance and coordination, now able to hop on one foot and show clear lateral dominance.
“He is determined to succeed in talking… he will do anything to gain speech abilities.”- Aariz’s Mom
Neuro-Developmental Therapy
Aariz’s respiratory and physical program greatly contribute to his successes.
Programs That Meet Him Where He Is
Working closely with Doman International, Aariz’s program has focused on cognitive development, language foundations, respiration, mobility, and nutrition. Reading supports motivation. Movement and breathing activities increase brain oxygenation and attention. Nutrition is carefully maintained to support overall brain function. Together, these efforts have improved Aariz’s quality of life—greater confidence, clearer emotional expression, and stronger physical control.
Support That Makes Continuity Possible
Sustaining this level of consistency is demanding—for time, energy, and resources. Support from YaraStar Foundation eased the weight of continuing an essential six-month cycle, allowing Aariz’s family to focus on the work itself rather than what might interrupt it.
“Sustaining this program every six months is essential for his progress… the scholarship will be very helpful in lowering the financial expenses required.”- Aariz Mom
Looking Ahead
In the months ahead, the focus narrows toward speech—giving Aariz every possible opportunity to develop his voice. His family holds steady hope: for words, for friendships, for independence, and for a life where Aariz is seen, heard, and fully included—one determined step at a time.
