Back from the Brink is an honest, no holds barred autobiography by Tim Chan, a young man with severe autism. His story of his childhood without functional speech, plus severe developmental delays, is enriched by the voice of his mother Sarah, a trained psychologist, and her tireless efforts to facilitate Tim’s understanding of and engagement with the world. The story describes their perspectives on Tim’s journey to overcome immense challenges and stigmatisation to achieve communication and connection with people, graduate from mainstream school to study at university, and gain recognition as an autism advocate and speaker.

I admit to having problems with the book. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. Dr. Mike Steer AM. Director, NSW Office on Disability, Senior Lecturer University of New Castle.

Tim is determination personified! Chris Varney, CEO and Founder of the I Can Network

I really love this book: it made me smile in parts, wince and cringe in others, and cry… it comes from a deep awareness and sensitivity. Amanda Marshall, CEO of Kevin Heinze Grow 2006 -2017

Tim Chan

Born the last of four children into a Chinese Australian family, Tim was diagnosed with autism at age 3. His determined efforts to manage his autistic challenges and engage with the world have resulted in unprecedented achievements, including being the first autistic person without speech to present a TEDx Talk via assisted typing. Tim’s experiences with challenges at both the personal level and in the wider community have inspired him to pursue advocacy and social justice for people with disability.

Sarah Chan PhD

Sarah is Tim’s mother and primary carer. Coming from Hong Kong to Australia as a tertiary student, Sarah worked in research and resources in the Victorian Education Department before retraining as a school psychologist. After Tim’s diagnosis, Sarah devoted her time to learning about autism to support Tim on his journey, including effective interventions and her own doctoral research into autistic self-awareness, memory and narrative skills.