From Awareness to Lived Reality

Kerrin Simon and Kenai Ermineskin (Patient Partner)

Kerrin Simon is a mother, advocate and community member from Maskwacîs, where access to autism and neurodiversity supports can be limited — and often requires families to travel far from home. For Kerrin, that journey became deeply personal as she sought care and understanding for her son, Kenai Ermineskin.

Like many families in her community, Kerrin faced barriers to accessing services, from long wait times to a lack of local supports. That began to change when she connected with WCHRI-supported researcher Grant Bruno through community-based programming and autism support groups. What started as a small gathering of families has grown into a space for connection, learning and shared understanding.

Through this work, Kerrin has not only accessed support — she has helped shape it. By sharing her family’s experiences, she is helping ensure research reflects the realities of Indigenous families. “Their mind works differently,” she says, reflecting a Cree understanding of autism rooted in acceptance and strength.

The impact has been profound. Kerrin has gained knowledge, confidence and a stronger sense of community — and she has seen the same transformation in others around her. Families who once felt alone are now coming together, supporting one another and building something lasting.

For Kerrin, this work is about Kenai — but it’s also about the many families who will follow, and the future they deserve.

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