Hugo’s journey: autism, connection, and learning to communicate

In Vilnius, Lithuania, ten-year-old Hugo lives with autism and communicates primarily through gestures, glances, and a few words. His father, Danielius Žamoit, describes a family that has learned to interpret many of Hugo’s signals, though parts of his inner world remain elusive.

Danielius and his wife have spent years learning to understand Hugo’s unique way of experiencing the world, celebrating small victories like learning to ride a bicycle after years of seeming unable.

They’ve navigated challenges with communication, schooling, and societal perceptions, always striving to provide Hugo with the best possible support. The family discovered Hugo’s autism after initial developmental delays prompted them to seek specialist evaluations. Early years were difficult, with Hugo struggling to adapt to preschool and drawing concerned looks from others. However, with the right support, he thrived in a specialized learning center where his needs were better understood.

While Hugo’s verbal communication remains limited, he expresses affection through physical touch and recognizes familiar people and routines. Danielius reflects on the journey, acknowledging the initial fear and uncertainty that accompanied the diagnosis. The family has learned to accept what they cannot change and to focus on Hugo’s strengths, while also grappling with the question of how much potential remains undiscovered.

They now embrace a mindset of “why not?”, seeing possibilities where others might see limitations, and look forward to simple shared experiences, like family bike rides, as a way to connect and create lasting memories.