On behalf of the members of the Autistic Society of T&T, I extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Allyson Hennessy. Her family will be comforted to know that Allyson touched so many lives via her television programmes. She was a friend to many of the NGOs and she recognised their important role in society. Off the air and without fanfare she would seek help for NGOs.
In early 1990, as hosts of the television programme Community Dateline, Allyson and Judy Alcantara hosted ASTT's first visitor, an autism education specialist from the USA, Kari Dunn Buron. In the years to follow Allyson would always provide a segment on her programme to highlight the needs of the Autistic Society and many other NGOs associated with disability. She was deeply interested in removing the stigma associated with having a disability in T&T.
She was a professional and was able to make anyone feel comfortable in front of the camera. She just carried on a lively conversation and before the person got nervous "the interview" would be finished.
We are grateful for her support throughout ASTT's history. We will treasure her commitment to us and all those with autism. "When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure."
Teresina Sieunarine
President, ASTT