This post is written by Founder and CEO of SAAAC Autism Centre, Geetha Moorthy.
At SAAAC Autism Centre, we believe in the power of the arts to tell stories beyond words. Our upcoming musical, Amma, Where Are You?, does just that—it shines a light on the families we serve, those who face incredible challenges yet show unbreakable strength. One such family is Sivamany and her daughter, Maathumai, whose story has touched us all.
When I met Sivamany in 2010, she faced the struggles we see in so many newcomer families. She was trying to secure a future for her daughter, Maathumai, while navigating language barriers and a complex, inaccessible system. Alone in her journey—without extended family or community support—she embodied the challenges many caregivers face.
SAAAC was able to provide the support she so urgently needed. Sivamany attended workshops, received financial advice, and worked closely with our case management team. Meanwhile, Maathumai blossomed in our arts programs, finding joy in visual art and dance. She performed at our Gala and displayed her artwork at SAAAC events, where her talents shone.
What stands out most about Sivamany was her unwavering belief in Maathumai’s potential. Despite the barriers they faced, she was determined to give her daughter a life where she could thrive and belong.
Life dealt the family harsh blows. In 2017, Sivamany lost her husband, and in 2019, she was diagnosed with cancer. Even as her health declined, her focus stayed on securing Maathumai’s future. Sivamany passed away in 2023, leaving behind Maathumai, who still needs extensive support, and a young son who has now become her primary caregiver. The loss of a mother is devastating for any family, but for this one, it brought overwhelming uncertainty and responsibility.
The musical Amma, Where Are You? tells the story of how this family navigated the heartbreaking loss of a mother and rebuilt itself with new caregivers to support Maathumai. It’s more than a tribute—it’s a reflection of the resilience, love, and dedication that so many of our families show in the face of hardship. This musical reminds us all of the power of community—how the arts, services, and small acts of kindness can change lives.
We invite you to join us in this shared journey—because it is through our collective action, our willingness to care and to help, that families like Sivamany’s are able to rise through adversity.
Purchase tickets here: https://bit.ly/3MiIDIx
📅 Date: Friday, October 18, 2024
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📍 Location: Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, 5183 Sheppard Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1B 5Z5🎟️ Tickets: $50, $100