“My parents, Des & Treasa McKernan, were tireless advocates for people with autism. It became clear, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, that my brother had a condition that required a lot of intensive support, care and attention, so that he could live his life. My parents set up Aspire in the 1990s to bring people together, to mutually support each other through the ups and downs of diagnoses, respite and daily life. They grew a large network of people over time, centred on caring for people with autism, and helping those who cared for them.

I remember the early years were tough: lots of educating, lots of visiting, lots of lobbying, looking for help at a time when Ireland didn’t and couldn’t care for people with these conditions.
My parents believed in learning about and following best practice — and where it didn’t exist, to implement it. They were enthusiastic supporters of efforts to improve our understanding of the condition, learning from experts from around the world, and attempting to build something that would last in Ireland.

Aspire has come a very long way in the last few decades. From my parents’ kitchen table to: a residential facility, an office, respite grants, support for educators, drama classes to help with social skills, and education of the broader community. I am very proud of what they and scores of others built and how it has developed. I think my parents would be very proud too if they could see Aspire today.”