Honouring Chase

A Call for Urgent Action in Inclusive Education and Community Safety 

Our team extends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community of Chase. His tragic passing is an immense loss, and we stand in solidarity with all those mourning and seeking answers in the wake of this heartbreaking event. 

Chase’s passing is a stark reminder of the systemic gaps that persist in supporting neurodivergent youth. As an organization committed to inclusive education, we recognize the urgency of ensuring that autistic learners—and all neurodivergent individuals—receive the respect, understanding, and accommodations they deserve, not only in classrooms but also in broader society. 

The Need for Trauma-Informed and Neuroaffirming Practices 

AutismBC’s call for trauma-informed approaches resonates deeply with our mission. Far too often, neurodivergent individuals face systemic misunderstandings that lead to harmful, even fatal, interactions with emergency responders and community services. Training in trauma-informed, neuroaffirming responses must become a priority, ensuring that first responders and educators alike have the skills to interact safely and supportively with autistic individuals, particularly non-speaking and high-support youth. 

Filling the Gaps in Social-Emotional Support 

Chase’s passing also highlights the profound need for wraparound support for neurodivergent youth. Many bright, neurodivergent students with high social-emotional needs are often overlooked in school-based funding models, leaving them vulnerable to social isolation, anxiety, and inadequate support. Without meaningful connections and safe spaces to express themselves, these students are left navigating challenges alone, increasing their risk of crisis situations. 

At LDS, we advocate for a holistic support system—one that includes: 

• Social-emotional learning programs tailored to neurodivergent students 
• Expert educators and support staff who understand executive functioning and sensory needs 
• Crisis intervention resources that prioritize de-escalation and awareness 
• Neuroaffirming environments that build confidence so that each unique learner can thrive 

A Commitment to Change Through Collaboration 

We echo AutismBC’s call for interministerial action to address the gaps in services in education, child welfare, healthcare, and social development. Neurodivergent youth deserve a safety net that extends beyond school hours—one that recognizes the intersection of their educational, social, and mental health needs. 

LDS remains committed to working with families, educators, and advocacy groups to push for policy changes that ensure every neurodivergent learner receives the support they need to thrive. We continue to stand in the gap, providing neuroaffirming learning support and inclusive support in the community and throughout the province. 

– Rachel S. Forbes, Executive Director

LDS is a community of dedicated professionals who write collaboratively. We recognize the contribution of unnamed team members for their wisdom and input.