Once you turn 18, autism no longer exists — at least, according to Italy’s National Health System. During your childhood you are entitled to financial benefits, but once you stop being a minor, those end.
And while autism is not a psychiatric condition, these 18 year olds need a psychiatrist’s assessment to establish how severe their condition is and whether they can continue receiving financial support.
They arrive accompanied by their parents. It is generally impossible to subject them to a real interview. The ones who talk — and talk, they do — are the parents, who tell us about their lives.
Today it was Davide's time.
Two big joyful, smiling eyes. In absolute silence, he filled the room with his explosion of energy and boundless love for his parents, communicated with constant hugs and caresses, as if to reward them for their absolute dedication.
At 19, Davide's care is left completely in the hands of his family members. They come to us with a sense of guilt because they have to ask for financial support. After receiving the certificate, they even thank you.
But today I couldn't do it.
“You don't have to thank me. I’m the one who should thank you and ask for forgiveness. On behalf of the whole society, but especially on behalf of the institution I represent.”
I should have asked Davide, in particular, for forgiveness, but there would have been no point doing so. Davide would have simply hugged me, because all he knows is how to love.
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