How Demi Lovato's Message at the DNC Inspired Me as Someone With Autism

Demi Lovato, a mental health advocate, spoke at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) this week, and she did not disappoint. The message she gave that really stuck out to me was:

“This is not about politics. It’s simply the right thing to do.”

Watch Demi’s entire speech here:

“What a wonderful thing to say,” I thought to myself. This is an important message for everyone in our country needing support, whether it be for mental illness, disease, disability, etc. Lovato then went on to discuss how she had access to the resources she needed for her own mental illness, but many Americans today do not.

Although I’m not living with a mental illness, I struggled as a child due to autism. However, because my parents were paying out of pocket, I was able to get the early intervention and support I needed to thrive. Now, as an adult, I speak as an autism advocate to our legislators about the need for autism and other disability legislation.

I’ve written before about Lovato speaking up for the cause, and I believe moving forward, we need more celebrities and advocates to start using their platforms to discuss these serious topics and help our loved ones. I applaud her for what she did and continues to do to be a champion for mental illness.

As she concluded, “every small action counts,” and we can never forget that. We can all make a difference.

You can read a version of this blog at Kerrymagro.com.