Celebrating Autism Awareness Month: Oaklee’s Story 

When Oaklee was a little over a year old, his mother and grandmother began to notice some developmental issues that raised questions. As he grew, the family sought answers, which led to the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder earlier this year.  

Autism spectrum disorder, also referred to as autism or ASD, is a developmental condition that often impacts a person’s social skills, sensitivity to stimuli, communication, and self-regulation. And like the name suggests, autism can present differently for each person. 

Now 4 years old, Oaklee is growing and learning about the world in a way that works for him, with his family by his side. 

“He’s a busy guy. He’s adventurous and curious, and you always know when Oaklee’s in the room,” Oaklee’s mother, Candice, said. “He loves music, letters, and numbers, and being outside. He’s very happy." 

April is Autism Awareness Month, which aims to promote inclusion, acceptance, and understanding for people on the spectrum. Part of that, according to Oaklee’s grandmother, Deborah, is dispelling myths and misconceptions about children and people on the spectrum – including their ability to express emotion and affection. 

“Oaklee gives you hugs. He’s great, and he’ll look you in the eye and smile,” Deborah said. “I would love people to know that these are great kids, and they can do a lot if given the opportunity.” 

This year, Oaklee started Occupational and Speech Therapy with WVU Medicine, in Martinsburg. 

“We were told we would potentially have to wait a long time to get him into therapy. When we contacted WVU Medicine, we were pleasantly surprised that we were able to get him in,” Candice said. “We’ve learned a lot about his sensory needs and the way he interprets the world. That’s helped us make him happier and allowed us to be able to teach him more.” 

Occupational Therapist Amanda Weller works with Oaklee and other patients on the autism spectrum and says it’s important to highlight just how capable these children are and can be.  

“I have had the pleasure of meeting and supporting children on the autism spectrum. These children are resilient, determined, creative, and have many talents. They have unique strengths and talents that are amazing to experience," Weller said. “We have been supporting Oaklee's sensory processing needs to give him support for all daily routines." 

According to Deborah, Oaklee is a “super smart,” loving, and capable kid who just expresses himself a little differently. And through sessions with WVU Medicine Speech Therapist Julia Heatherton, Oaklee and his family are able to find and nurture communication that works for him. 

"Oaklee experiences the world in his own unique way. He communicates through bright expressions, purposeful gestures, and meaningful moments of connection,” Heatherton said. “Using a parent coaching approach, his family is learning how to follow his lead and turn everyday interactions into opportunities for growth. Whether it's a shared smile, a playful exchange, or a quiet moment of connection, these experiences are building the foundation for communication and emotional development.”  

Autism Awareness Month may be nearing its end, but according to Weller, supporting children, adults, and families in the community is a year-round goal. 

“This month, and every month, it is important to shed light on the supportive families, like Oaklee’s, who are there for their children daily,” she said. “It is a pleasure to be a support for the autism community.”