When we see television stars like Angela Christoforo’s, a WIVB Channel 4 News reporter, we often see them as just that. A talented reporter on television who delivers us our news and stories. But what if Christoforos used her platform to share her own story, a story that may help other families through the difficult challenges they are facing?
On Monday, March 6 Christoforos will do just that as she she teams up with People Inc. and the Buffalo Sabres to bring awareness to autism, a developmental disability her brother, Polyvios, overcomes every day.
Here she shares her story.
Every 1 in 68 children is on the autism spectrum. This also applies to more than two million people in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide. Yet years ago, it seemed like autism and other developmental disabilities were hardly talked about. Back in the early 90s when my brother Polyvios was born, the topic was a blip on the radar.
I was born in May of 1990, and my brother Polyvios was born just over a year later in July of 1991. As her first born child, my mother says I hit milestones right on time, but my brother Polyvios couldn’t make out words well past the age of 3. He was diagnosed with PDD, pervasive developmental disorder.
That’s when our journey as a family began. Growing up, I struggled with my brother’s behaviors. It always felt like I was walking on egg shells. It was tough for me to understand why all my friends had “normal” siblings and mine was different.
Now more than two decades later, we can’t get Polyvios to stop talking! He is an award-winning artist with a larger than life personality, and I couldn’t be more proud. He still has his moments, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
My brother has been in special programs for years. The patience and special attention demonstrated by the people who have worked with him have played an integral role in his growth. Through agencies like People Inc., you can do the same: make a big difference and impact an entire family.
It is my hope that you’ll join me on Monday, March 6, when People Inc. teams up with the Buffalo Sabres for a Recruitment Rally to see how you can help families like mine. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the KeyBank Center, and you’ll have the chance to learn more about People Inc., interview with a recruiter, enter to win great prizes and meet me!
It’s because of agencies like People Inc. and their dedicated employees that my brother is who he is today. Find out how you, too, can make a difference.
For more information on Christoforo’s advocacy for autism awareness, visit angelachristoforos.com/austism-advocacy/
