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ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN VORAKA
Article Published on 14 November 2024 by Anne Montgomery | www.vorakamag.com
Receiving an autism diagnosis for a child can be a life-altering, profoundly impactful event that ushers in a new reality for families, requiring a major adjustment to confront and adapt to the significant changes and challenges it brings. This can be an especially daunting hurdle for fathers to overcome, as some may initially struggle to fully accept the diagnosis and engage in supporting their child on the autism spectrum. Stubbornly clinging to outdated, macho mindsets, these fathers may be in denial or resistant to the realities of raising a child with autism, unwilling to face the diagnosis head-on and do the emotional work required to provide the nurturing, engaged support their child deserves. Harry Psaros was once this kind of father, until he underwent a transformative shift in perspective that led him to become a passionate voice for other dads navigating this journey.
In his book "From Struggle to Strength: A Father's Journey with Autism and the Power of Hope and Positivity," Psaros shares his family's story of overcoming initial resistance to embracing his son Gus's autism diagnosis. By demonstrating how an empowered, solutions-oriented mindset has allowed his son to thrive with the support of both parents, Psaros aims to inspire other fathers to step up, get involved, and cultivate the mental fortitude needed to be the rock their child on the autism spectrum needs. This book is not a prescriptive "how-to" guide, as the saying goes, "If you meet one child with autism, you have met one child with autism." Rather, Psaros provides emotional support and practical advice on a range of topics, including acceptance, incremental daily improvements, building a supportive village, self-care for parents and children, and implementing a mindset of positivity, hope, resilience, and grit. "From Struggle to Strength" is a powerful and transformative read that will greatly benefit any parent or caregiver dealing with an autism diagnosis.
BEHIND THE PEN: HARRY PSAROS
A devoted family man, Harry Psaros has been happily married to his wife Michelle for 24 years and is a proud father of two sons, Costa “Gus” and Maximos “Max.” Originally from the steel town of Weirton, WV, Psaros has called McDonald, PA home for the past two decades. With a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh, as well as minors in physics and philosophy, Psaros has a strong educational foundation. Further expanding his expertise, he obtained a certification as a health coach from the Institute of Integrated Nutrition. Professionally, Psaros serves as an Executive Neuroscience Account Specialist for AbbVie. Known affectionately by fans as the “Pitt Guru,” he is a top social media influencer for University of Pittsburgh athletics and the senior writer for Pittsburgh Sports Now.
Harry is on the Board of Directors for the Autism Caring Center, President of North Fayette Township’s Parks and Recreation Board, Vice President of All Saints Greek Orthodox Church in Weirton, WV, and one of the founders of North Fayette P.A.L.S. (an organization for special needs children). Harry is an avid reader, enjoys strength training, running, martial arts, and lives to serve others.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR HARRY PSAROS
Harry Psaros has recently released his latest book, which explores a father's journey with autism and the power of hope and positivity. We sat down with him to discuss his creative process, the challenges of writing, and what truly drives his passion for storytelling.
How has your family, including your wife Michelle and sons Gus and Max, influenced your professional and personal journey? My family holds the utmost importance in my life, shaping every choice I make. My wife and sons are my entire universe, and I am dedicated to leaving a lasting legacy. Ultimately, I want my sons to view me as a role model who positively impacts the world.
In what ways have your degrees in Industrial Engineering, Physics, and Philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh shaped your career and approach to life?
I’m a proud Greek American. Greeks heavily emphasize the value of education. Beyond degrees, my family stressed self-education. The bigger the library of books, the better. My degree from the University of Pittsburgh has opened many doors for me.
What inspired you to pursue a certification as a health coach from the Institute of Integrated Nutrition, and how do you apply this expertise in your daily life?
You are a product of what you consume and digest. The ‘Traditional Western Diet’ is an abomination. Diets are a con job. Turning clean eating into a lifestyle is what matters. I attended IIN to gain a greater knowledge of nutrition.
What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of your role as an Executive Neuroscience Account Specialist for AbbVie? I develop therapeutic Botox clinics for patients who suffer debilitating migraines. My passion is watching the patients achieve phenomenal results and return to living their best lives.
How did you become known as the “Pitt Guru,” and what drives your passion for University of Pittsburgh athletics? I developed the first websites covering University of Pittsburgh athletics. Over the past 25 years, I’ve developed a considerable following by commenting on NCAA and professional sports. I love the nickname the “Pitt Guru.”
As the senior writer for Pittsburgh Sports Now, what topics or stories do you find most compelling to cover? I’ve written sports recruiting and human-interest stories for nearly 30 years. Because I treat athletes with respect and objectivity, I’ve developed countless close relationships with them. What motivated you to take on leadership roles at the Autism Caring Center, North Fayette Township’s Parks and Recreation Board, and All Saints Greek Orthodox Church?
I tell my sons, “In the game of life, you’re either sitting on the bench or playing. The people who play in the game make the impact.” I attempt to assume as many leadership roles as possible. Everything I’m involved with directly helps people in one way or another.
Can you share the story behind the creation of North Fayette P.A.L.S. and its impact on the community?
People with special needs often feel they are on an island. We started North Fayette P.A.L.S. to create a ‘safe space’ organization where families with special needs children can meet, bond, and find a supportive village.
How do your interests in strength training, running, and martial arts contribute to your overall well-being and work-life balance?
I believe that discipline equals freedom. You have to have a strong body to match a strong mind. Daily movement is critical. Your body is a machine that isn’t meant for overeating and sloth. Martial arts have developed my self-confidence, work ethic, and self-discipline.
What genres or authors do you gravitate towards in your reading, and how does reading influence your personal and professional life? I enjoy books on leadership, philosophy, history, health, bio-hacking, and non-fiction. You are as good as the last five books you have read! You don’t need a traditional college degree if you are a voracious reader. I respect anyone who’s an autodidact.
Can you elaborate on how your philosophy, “If you are breathing air, you should be helping others,” guides your actions and decisions? You have one life, make a positive impact. Leave a legacy by doing something each day to make someone smile. Be the light in someone’s darkness.
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