April 9 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
13.4 million Canadians (42% of the population over the age of 15) are unpaid caregivers. Over 5.2 million people in the workforce balance a job with caregiving duties. Women (52%) are more likely to be caregivers than men (42%), particularly in roles requiring regular, time-intensive personal care. Nearly 1 in 5 caregivers are over the age of 65.
In this session, we’ll deep dive into the world of burnout, as it applies to caregivers. Learn to recognize the signs and causes of caregiver burnout—which is described as a state of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion often triggered by juggling multiple responsibilities.
We’ll explore common stressors such as job demands, caregiver fatigue, and interpersonal conflicts, and discuss practical strategies to prevent or manage burnout in the workplace.
This session is presented by Autism Edmonton in partnership with Caregivers Alberta and support from The Sinneave Family Foundation.
Thursday, April 9
12:00 – 1:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s Eventbrite page. You can register by clicking the button that says “Register.”
About the Presenter
Christina Henderson is a highly motivated and professional trainer in workshop facilitation, administration, and program development. As the founder of Peerspective Consulting and Facilitation in Calgary, Alberta, and the Coordinator for Caregivers Alberta Work & Care program, Christina has collaborated with organizations across Canada to integrate positive and supportive programming into staff, client, and partner interactions.
Christina is the mom of twin sons who both have special needs. Her lived experience has given her a deep understanding of the importance of fostering supportive environments and empowering individuals through peer connections.
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March 17 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
This presentation is part of the Azrieli Accelerator Engaged Research Discussion Series. During this online discussion we will explore how the language used in research shapes public understanding, policy conversations, and community trust.
Using neurodiversity-affirming language as a case example, we will examine how people with lived experience wish to be represented in scientific literature and the responsibilities researchers hold as their work circulates beyond academic journals.
Participants will reflect on precision, accuracy, and intentional language choices in research communication.
Tuesday, March 17
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via Azrieli Accelerator
Registration for this event is via the Azrieli Accelerator. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Azrieli Accelerator Engaged Research Discussion Series
This series helps researchers build capacity to meaningfully engage people with lived experience as participants and partners in research. Open to researchers and trainees across all disciplines, we introduce core principles of engaged research and explore how inclusive, community-partnered approaches can strengthen research design, practice, and knowledge sharing in neurodevelopment research.
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March 25 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Cancer can affect anyone, and growing awareness is helping healthcare providers better understand how to support Autistic patients throughout diagnosis and treatment.
As research and lived experience continue to inform practice, there is increasing recognition that sensory environments, communication styles, and healthcare systems can play an important role in how Autistic people experience cancer care – particularly for aging Autistic adults navigating complex treatment pathways.
Join Dr. Char Goodwin, Dr. Mary Doherty, and Melissa Levin for an insightful discussion exploring how cancer care can evolve to better meet the needs of Autistic patients.
Drawing on research, clinical insight, and lived expertise, the panel will highlight both the challenges Autistic patients report and the approaches that are making care more accessible and supportive across the cancer journey.
In this webinar, we’ll explore:
• What Autistic patients say is most helpful across screening, diagnosis, and treatment
• How communication, sensory awareness, and flexible practices can improve care
• Practical strategies clinicians and support networks can use to create more accessible healthcare experiences
Participants will also hear system-level ideas that can help healthcare environments become more responsive and supportive, so Autistic patients can focus on their health rather than navigating barriers.
This session is designed for Autistic adults, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and anyone interested in strengthening cancer care for Autistic people.
Wednesday, March 25
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via AIDE Canada
Registration for this event is via AIDE Canada’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenters:
Dr. Mary Doherty
Melissa Levin
Dr. Char Goodwin
Moderator:
Douglas Parsons – Training and Resource Manager, Autism Edmonton
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March 31 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
For many years, autism research and diagnostic tools focused primarily on male presentations. As research and lived experience continue to shape the field, our understanding of how Autism presents in girls and women is growing.
This important panel brings together three leading voices who are helping advance that understanding and improve how autism is recognized and assessed.
Together, they will explore why many women have historically been overlooked in diagnostic processes, and how research, clinical insight, and lived expertise are helping change that.
During this webinar, we’ll explore:
• Why current Autism diagnostic tools may not fully capture female presentations
• How camouflaging and gendered expectations can influence clinical assessment
• What emerging research and practice can do to improve recognition and support
This discussion is designed for clinicians, educators, researchers, families, and Autistic individuals interested in building a fuller understanding of the female autism experience.
Tuesday, March 31
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via AIDE Canada
Registration for this event is via AIDE Canada’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenters:
Dr. Gina Rippon
Dr. Dana Waters
Dr. Kimberly Armstrong
Moderator:
Douglas Parsons – Training and Resource Manager, Autism Edmonton
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April 8 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
What is life like for an Autistic over the age of 50 who received their diagnosis later in life? Plus, how and why does one become a self-advocate at this stage of a person’s life?
Meet Dianne Skoetsch. Dianne is a powerhouse of energy and dedicated to lifelong learning. In this session, you will hear Dianne’s story. You may identify with certain aspects of her journey and walk away having met someone who feels like a kindred spirit. We are convinced that you will appreciate her message.
This learning session is part of Autism Edmonton’s “Autistic Journeys: Voices and Perspectives” series which is brought to you with support from the Sinneave Family Foundation.
Wednesday, April 8
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenter:
Dianne Skoetsch was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, and has deep roots in the community. She was born in 1960 at the Royal Alexandra Hospital and was raised by her mother from a young age, an experience that fostered her independence, resilience, and strong sense of responsibility. An only child, Dianne has lived in Edmonton for most of her life.
Diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome later in life, Dianne brings valuable lived experience, insight, and compassion to her work and volunteerism. She values faith, lifelong learning, and healthy living, and she enjoys music, theatre, nature, walking, cooking, typing, and ongoing personal development. She regularly participates in fitness and educational programs at local senior centres.
Dianne currently serves as Power of Attorney and Agent for her mother, Maisie, who lives with progressive dementia in a specialized care residence. This unpaid role reflects her commitment to advocacy, ethical decision-making, and caregiving. She has also volunteered with the Autism Independent Living Association for over 10 years, including service as a former board member and secretary, and continues to support the organization through special projects.
In addition, Dianne is a board member and singer with Braille Tones, a choir for individuals with disabilities, through the Braille Tones Music Society. She is also a member of the Autism Lions Club, where she occasionally participates in service initiatives. Dianne is deeply committed to helping others, fostering inclusion, and contributing meaningfully to her community.
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March 26 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
After overcoming struggles to accept and understand the impact of autism in her own life, Terri Robson was inspired to help others. With incredible determination she has engaged in various projects to raise awareness of and remove barriers for individuals with Autism.
Terri has become an ambassador and a voice for thousands of Albertans and Canadians who cannot speak for themselves. The impact of Terri’s tireless work is tremendous as her presentations continue to be well-received in communities and have even exceeded her own expectations.
Her impressive skills are not limited to her workspace. Terri is a leader and mentor who has worked tirelessly at many varied events in Alberta for years. Her determination, hard work and effectiveness continue to inspire and to make a difference in Alberta’s communities.
Dynamic, funny, and informative, Terri will share how she became an advocate for herself and for others. You don’t want to miss it.
This learning session is part of Autism Edmonton’s “Autistic Journeys: Voices and Perspectives” series which is brought to you with support from the Sinneave Family Foundation.
Thursday, March 26
7:00 – 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
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March 12 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Over half of Canadian women (52% in 2022) provide care for children or adults, paid or unpaid, significantly more than men. In 2022, 1.8 million Canadians were “sandwich caregivers,” supporting both children and care-dependent adults simultaneously. A large number of women in these percentages are Autistic and are caretaking for individuals who are Autistic (both diagnosed and undiagnosed).
Presented by Autism Edmonton and Caregivers Alberta, this one-hour Lunch and Learn workshop will explore practical ways to help employees balance their work responsibilities with caregiving duties. It covers organizational policies, procedures, and practices that support caregivers, as well as flexible work options and accommodations.
Attendees will learn about tools like Caregiver Needs Assessments and Work Plans to ensure caregivers receive the right support while maintaining productivity.
Thursday, March 12, 2026
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s Eventbrite page. You can register by clicking the button that says “Register.”
About the Presenter
Christina Henderson is a highly motivated and professional trainer in workshop facilitation, administration, and program development. As the founder of Peerspective Consulting and Facilitation in Calgary, Alberta, and the Coordinator for Caregivers Alberta Work & Care program, Christina has collaborated with organizations across Canada to integrate positive and supportive programming into staff, client, and partner interactions.
Christina is the mom of twin sons who both have special needs. Her lived experience has given her a deep understanding of the importance of fostering supportive environments and empowering individuals through peer connections.
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March 19 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Join Autism Edmonton’s Autistic Journeys: Voices & Perspectives series, where individuals share their story of how they have become self-advocates. In this case, Heather will discuss how, as an aging adult, they have created a space for themselves. A specific focus will be on AISH and resources.
This learning session introduces you to a self-advocate who is creating space for everyone through the advocacy they are doing. Join to learn more and be inspired!
This session is brought to you by Autism Edmonton and The Sinneave Family Foundation.
Thursday, March 19, 2026
7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenter:
Heather Hanninen Fairbairn is a disabled, nonbinary person working at the intersections of poverty, disability, housing, and women’s and gender-diverse people’s issues. Heather has multiple disabilities, and she is neurodivergent, which she considers an asset and not a disability.
Heather began to organize AISH recipients about 10 years ago by creating the first Facebook group for AISH-specific concerns and still plays an active role in her own group, The AISH Page, and associated AISH groups. AISH is Alberta’s provincial disability benefit.
Heather is part of the Pan-Canadian Voice for Women’s Housing’s (PCVWH) National Advisory Council and is grateful to have worked along with the amazing women and gender-diverse humans that make up that group.
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February 27 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Join Kyle Lobb for a unique exploration of Autistic Journeys, offering diverse voices and perspectives. This learning session is part of Autism Edmonton’s “Autistic Journeys: Voices and Perspectives” series, where Kyle will share his experiences and insights as a neurodivergent individual navigating life, independence, and community involvement.
This session is well suited for educators, parents, professionals, and anyone interested in hearing authentic Autistic voices and learning about neurodiversity, self-advocacy, and inclusive practices.
This session is brought to you by Autism Edmonton and The Sinneave Family Foundation.
Friday, February 27
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenter:
Kyle Lobb is a 37-year-old neurodivergent individual diagnosed with Autism, Tourette’s syndrome, OCD, ADHD, and Bipolar disorder. Growing up, Kyle often felt different from others and faced challenges navigating school, friendships, employment, and neurotypical society. Despite these obstacles, he has developed strategies to manage daily life and recently moved into his first independent home with support from his community.
Kyle is also a personal trainer and an active member of Toastmasters, which has helped him build confidence and strengthen his communication skills. He credits much of his personal growth to the support of his loving family and Edmonton’s Autistic community, inspiring him to give back through active involvement in initiatives that empower neurodivergent individuals.
Kyle currently serves as Vice-President of the Alberta Independent Living Association (AiLA), using his lived experience and expertise to advance independence, advocacy, and inclusion for people with disabilities.
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February 11 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Join Terri Pasieckza for a deep dive into the unique connections between Ehlers-Danlos and Autism – a powerful journey awaits! This session is part of the “Strong Yet Flexible: Ehlers-Danlos and Autism” learning series, brought to you by Autism Edmonton and The Sinneave Family Foundation. A series focusing on Autistic women who also have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Explore the critical intersection of Autism and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and why understanding it matters. Many Autistic individuals also live with hEDS, which can affect everything from sensory experiences to daily functioning and mental health. This session will highlight how overlapping challenges—like chronic pain, fatigue, and heightened sensory sensitivity—impact quality of life, self-advocacy, and access to appropriate care.
Join us to learn why recognizing this overlap is essential for families, educators, healthcare providers, and anyone supporting neurodivergent and disabled communities. Gain insights into practical strategies, advocacy tips, and ways to create inclusive spaces that truly meet diverse needs.
Wednesday, February 11
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Facilatator:
Terri Pasieckza is a dedicated and resilient homeschooling mother of two teenagers, all navigating life with neurodivergence and Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). After a 15-year teaching career was cut short due to her health, she has devoted herself to supporting her family while advocating for understanding and accessibility in both medical and societal spaces.
Having lived with the symptoms of EDS and its comorbidities for her entire life, she brings firsthand experience and deep knowledge of navigating complex medical systems. She is skilled at researching, asking critical questions, and advocating for herself and her loved ones, ensuring that their needs are met with dignity and respect.
Passionate about education, health advocacy, and challenging societal and medical misconceptions, she strives to raise awareness about the realities of living with hEDS and neurodivergence. Her work emphasizes empowerment, self-advocacy, and creating space for voices often overlooked in mainstream conversations.