Ann Mclean
My 12 year old son Tristan won a silver medal at the JKS World Karate Championships at the Glasgow Emirates Stadium in September 2016 then went on to take gold in the Scottish National Championships in October 2016. He has overcome so much to get there. Non-verbal at 4, we learned makaton to communicate with him then PECS. He learned how to play/socialise with friends. He learned coping strategies to deal with sensory issues in a variety of situations including team games, clubs, playground, and even international competition with the huge challenges that presents for Autism Spectrum Disorder children. He is a wonderful, caring and compassionate boy who shows great empathy for others, supporting team members and friends. He has also been nominated for Perth Disabled Sports Person of the Year. He has accomplished so many things to achieve what he has and will continue to do so.