Sahil’s Story: From Survival to Joy

When the World Feels Too Loud

Sahil is eleven, and for most of his life, the world has felt overwhelming. Living with autism, everyday experiences—sound, touch, even someone looking in his direction—often felt threatening. Without spoken language or sign language, Sahil had no reliable way to tell his family when he was scared, in pain, or overwhelmed. For years, the only way he could protect himself or exert control was through screaming—loud, intense vocalizations that filled his home from morning to night.

This shaped daily life for his family. Sahil needed constant supervision and full support with daily care. His parents often couldn’t tell if he was uncomfortable or hurt. Sensory hypersensitivities limited his diet to just six foods, causing digestive pain that affected toileting independence. Even leaving the house required careful planning. Still, his parents never responded with frustration. They understood that Sahil’s reactions were not choices—they were survival.

Choosing Consistency in the Middle of Strain

After years of traditional therapies and special schooling that increased Sahil’s anxiety, his family committed to a demanding daily neurodevelopmental program with Doman International. The work required hours each day, emotional endurance, and consistency—made harder by systemic barriers, reduced services, and financial strain.

“For this our family, the program is as much a necessity as food, water, and shelter.” - Sahil’s Mom

Despite constant pressure, Sahil’s mother showed up every day. Progress came slowly, but it came. Over time, Sahil’s sensory perception improved across all areas, and his ability to tolerate his environment increased.

Sahil doing forward rolls on the ground as part of his physical program

When Joy Finally Appeared

In the last six months, something shifted.

Sahil began to play—not intense stimming that overwhelmed him, but real play. He laughed. His parents heard sounds of joy they had never heard before. He started engaging with his younger brother and cousins.

At his most recent Doman International appointment, the change was unmistakable. Sahil sat quietly in the waiting room—something that had never happened before. Team members could look at him, speak with him, and engage without triggering fear. He answered questions using a facilitated communication board.

Then, unexpectedly, Sahil spoke.

In a soft, almost secret whisper, words emerged: hello, yes, no, finished. When his Doman staff coach gently pointed it out, Sahil smiled—and laughed. It was the first time anyone had seen him respond to being heard with joy.

“I have witnessed many families give up when faced with a tenth of what this family faces every day. That thought has never entered these parents’ minds.” -Doman Method Staff Coach

Support That Makes Continuity Possible

Sustaining this level of care—emotionally, physically, and financially—is demanding. Support from YaraStar Foundation helped ease the strain of continuing a program Sahil depends on for safety and growth. This support did not remove challenges but it made perseverance possible.

Looking Ahead

The next season for Sahil focuses on speech, respiration, confidence, and independence. Sahil has begun helping around the house on his own and taking on responsibilities. Challenges remain, but for the first time, Sahil is showing that he feels safe enough to emerge.

And that has changed everything.