The Arc of Larimer County is proud to announce Aubrey Waechter as the Annual Film Festival Contest winning filmmaker. Her film, “Welcome to Wesley’s World,” depicts a young boy’s strengths and struggles with hopes to empower viewers to practice empathy and learn about individuals living with autism.
“Welcome to Wesley’s World” is about an 11-year-old boy named Wesley. He is playful, vibrant, fun to be around and autistic. “One big stereotype of people living with autism is they can’t connect. They don’t make eye contact and don’t want to be touched,” said Robyn Stewart, Wesley’s step mother.
After being diagnosed with autism, the doctors told Wesley’s family that he would not have friends, a spouse or a high school degree; basically, he would not have a future. “Right then we knew not to focus on what Wesley can’t do, but what Wesley can do,” said Stewart. “Well, Wesley is not that at all. He is able to connect with anybody he is around and has a special bond that people just fall in love with. I think that is his superpower!”
“Welcome to Wesley’s World” will accompany a variety of other local and national short films at The Arc of Larimer County’s Seventh Annual Film Festival, ReFrame Disability.“Here’s to Wesley and everything that he is and all that he can do. Thanks for sharing your story, Wes,” said Waechter.
Date & Time March 8, 6-8 p.m.
Location Colorado State University’s Lory Student Center
Tickets www.arlc.org/film.
