"Sisterly" A Reflection on Autism

Student documentary shares personal story

On Sunday, April 16, a special documentary screening and a 5K event both contribute to the discussion on the important and relevant topic of autism.

“Sisterly,” a documentary by Andrews University senior documentary film major Nina Vallado, will have its first public screening with free admission on Sunday, April 16, at 7 p.m. in Newbold Auditorium, Buller Hall.

The film features Vallado and her younger sister, Lisa, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 2. It highlights and discusses their struggles and accomplishments as they seek to connect to one another despite Lisa’s autism.

Vallado has been working on “Sisterly” for three years now, describing it as a journey to “rediscover” her sister and “look past the autism and find out who Lisa really is.”

“Since Lisa was diagnosed with autism, we haven’t been able to talk like normal sisters are supposed to,” Vallado says. Throughout the film, Vallado documents her search for intimacy, connection and friendship with her sister.

Following the film’s premiere, Vallado will present a Q&A.

For more information about the documentary film program at Andrews University, email enroll@andrews.edu.

Additionally, the community is invited to participate in the Autism Speaks 5K Run co-hosted the same day by three student clubs and the Counseling & Testing Center. Registration begins at 8 a.m.; the race starts at 9 a.m. Proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to Autism Speaks. Race registration is $10 for students and $15 for community members and can be purchased online.

Related Links

• Watch a trailer for "Sisterly"
• Register for the 5K
• What is autism?
• About Autism Speaks
• Documentary Film at Andrews University
• Going to College with Asperger's & Autism