Step into the captivating world of Elsie Rogers, a prolific author whose best-selling book, “Autistic: Leaping Over Walls Whilst Living with Autism,” is making waves in both literary and societal spheres.
This masterpiece goes far beyond the realm of a mere narrative about trials and tribulations. It offers breakthroughs and hope, shedding light on the denial and non-acceptance of autism within ethnic minority communities.
Rogers’ book takes readers on an authentic and heartfelt journey, infused with her signature humor. Through her words, she offers profound insights into the challenging experience of raising her autistic son, who is 25, without losing sight of the impact on his 20-year-old brother. The story is a testament to resilience, love, and the importance of maintaining hope amid adversity.
In particular, the book serves as a lifeline for African families grappling with the stigma of disability. Rogers shows them how to successfully manage autism, drawing from her own experiences and offering guidance on accessing an inclusive society. This valuable resource equips readers with the necessary skills to cope and thrive.
Within the pages of this captivating book, Rogers’ indomitable spirit shines as she recounts her battle and ultimate victory in raising her autistic son, Joshua. The news of his diagnosis at the tender age of five shook Rogers to her core twenty years ago. Yet, armed with unwavering determination, she fearlessly confronted every challenge that accompanied caring for a child with autism.
While doubts initially clouded her mind, Joshua has proven time and again that his potential knows no bounds. Today, he is a beacon of inspiration, possessing a remarkable knack for self-help skills, an unwavering passion for music, and unmatched talent in the artistic realm.
His numerous victories in art competitions and his mesmerising performance at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall, where he showcased his self-taught piano skills, leave no doubt of his extraordinary abilities.
Joshua’s zest for life extends beyond his achievements; he wholeheartedly embraces his role in assisting with household duties and radiates contagious happiness. From school trips to cherished family vacations, he relishes every moment that life offers.
Joshua’s elder brother emerges as a powerful voice within these pages, shedding light on the demands he faced as a sibling to an autistic brother. Although grappling with the burdens of size and age disparities, he acknowledges the profound impact Joshua has had on his life, defining their bond as remarkable.
Bittersweet emotions flood his narrative as he recounts their separation during his departure for university, confronting the heart-wrenching truth that he would be leaving Joshua behind. The weight of this separation and the uncertainty of their mother’s ability to single-handedly cater to Joshua’s needs added to his anguish.
In an extraordinary gesture that defied societal expectations, Rogers boldly enlisted Joshua as a model for her groundbreaking hair growth brand, Opal Hair Growth Serum. Captured within the brand’s remarkable commercial, Joshua effortlessly embodies the limitless potential residing within individuals with autism, challenging prevailing misconceptions. Every frame of the photoshoot paints a vivid picture of his joy as he effortlessly follows instructions with magnificent grace.
Beyond her achievements in the literary world, Rogers has dedicated herself to empowering others. She has been involved in business transformation, project management implementation, training, speaking engagements, mentoring, and career development for numerous individuals and organisations.
In an inspiring display of compassion, she mentors youths from her community and local church, guiding them toward success and finding their career paths.
During the challenging times of the COVID pandemic, Rogers’ caring nature led her to support a non-profit organisation in her homeland of Nigeria, Joy Givers.
She took on a mentorship role, providing resources to empower widows to find their career paths, start businesses, and build their confidence. Additionally, she volunteers as a driver for Age UK in Herne Bay, Kent, delivering essential food to the elderly.
Her drive and passion for Autism transcend voluntary work and non-profit organisations. After publishing the book, Rogers created an interactive autism awareness course which is available on her website.
Her remarkable journey and invaluable insights have been documented in her book and are available on Amazon. This poignant memoir illuminates the power of resilience, hope, and unconditional love amidst the trials of autism.
