World Autism Awareness Day (2 April 2026): The Joyful World of Abhay

At 15, Abhay’s infectious smile and cheerful laughter have a way of brightening every room he enters. Described by his mother as handsome, charming, and endlessly joyful, Abhay is a constant source of happiness in her life. While some people express sympathy when they hear he is “special,” his mother sees things differently. To her, Abhay is a wonderful son and a precious gift who fills her days with laughter and love. 

Abhay was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in 2014. From a young age, he showed signs such as hand flapping and fascination with spinning objects, alongside challenges with eye contact and speech. Like many families navigating an autism diagnosis, the journey came with its share of ups and downs. Yet through it all, Abhay’s bright and carefree spirit has remained unwavering, bringing light and positivity to those around him. 

In 2016, during a follow-up appointment at Jurong Medical Centre’s Child Development Unit, a doctor recommended that the family connect with Club Rainbow (Singapore). Abhay officially began his journey with the organisation in 2017 — a decision that would open doors to new opportunities for growth, learning, and connection. 

Over the years, Club Rainbow has supported Abhay and his family through a range of programmes, including Social Work Intervention, Therapy Intervention, Educational Support, Arts Development, and Vocational Development. His mother shares that the support has been invaluable, with their social worker, Gui Hao, regularly checking in each month. These touchpoints, alongside Club Rainbow’s activities and events, have helped create a strong support system for both Abhay and his family. 

One of Abhay’s favourite highlights each year is the Dreamseeds Arts Fest, where Club Rainbow's children take centre stage to showcase their talents through singing, dancing, hosting, and playing instruments like the ukulele, guitar, and cajón. Abhay eagerly participates in these performances every year, embracing every opportunity to shine. He also looks forward to Camp Rainbow (a 3D2N stay-in camp for children with chronic illnesses organised by Club Rainbow), an experience he anticipates with excitement annually. 

While Abhay once struggled with socialising and maintaining eye contact, his determination and encouragement from his mother have helped him overcome these challenges. Today, he is known as the “social butterfly” at school, easily making friends wherever he goes — a transformation that fills his mother with immense pride. 

Among his many interests, Abhay’s greatest passion lies in singing and dancing. Performing allows him to express himself freely and share his pure, uninhibited joy with others. When he takes the stage, Abhay does more than perform — he spreads happiness. 

Through platforms like Dreamseeds Arts Fest, Abhay has not only nurtured his love for performing but also contributed meaningfully to raising awareness about individuals with special needs. His mother hopes that one day he will be able to live independently and build a livelihood doing something he truly enjoys. Above all, she hopes he will always remain happy. 

Abhay’s presence on stage is a celebration of courage, passion, and community spirit. His love for music and performance reminds us that contribution is not defined by cognitive ability, but by the willingness to share one’s gifts and bring joy to others. In doing so, Abhay continues to inspire everyone around him — proving that sometimes, the brightest lights shine from the purest hearts. 

World Autism Awareness Day was declared to be held on 2 April of every year by The United Nations General Assembly. It highlights the need to help improve the quality of life of individuals with autism, so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society. Autism is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood, and the term Autism Spectrum refers to a range of characteristics. With appropriate support, accommodation and acceptance of this neurological variation, individuals on the Spectrum can enjoy equal opportunity, and full and effective participation in society. 

Make a difference today - support Club Rainbow’s children like Abhay 

About Club Rainbow (Singapore)

Established in 1992, Club Rainbow (Singapore) is a non-profit organisation and registered charity with the mission to support and empower children with chronic illnesses, many of whom are with special needs and disabilities, and their families to lead a dignified life and become active contributors to society. 

Website: https://www.clubrainbow.org/

Contact number: 6377 1789 

Email: contact@clubrainbow.org

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