The Good Doctor

Shaun Murphy has a pet bunny as a young boy. It serves as an emotional support to him; he holds it tight and cuddles with it when he is having big feelings.

Then, there is an accident. The bunny doesn’t survive, and Shaun is left wondering how he could have fixed his broken beloved.

So begins his journey into the world of medicine and learning how to fix bodies that fall apart. Now, Dr. Shaun Murphy is a young surgeon being recruited into the pediatric surgical unit of a prestigious hospital.

Because he has autism, there are concerns from other doctors on staff. Can this person relate to patients? Will he have the capacity to make the right decisions in life and death situations, due to his disability?

The reality is, Dr. Shaun Murphy is a savant. His medical knowledge and extraordinary talents in understanding the intricate workings of the human body are nothing short of genius. He knows what to do, even before technology can explain what’s happening. In short, he can save lives, but will his prospective colleagues take the chance on him to demonstrate this ability?

As a mother to an 11 year old daughter with autism, I found comfort in seeing Dr. Shaun Murphy’s behaviors and characteristics played out in ways that felt so familiar to me. Especially, as he sheds tears and reflects on past events that were painful, I was reminded of my own daughter. It is one of the biggest myths about people with autism : they can’t feel emotion the same way neurotypical folks do.

The autism community is comprised of completely intact souls who are here to make a difference in this world. I am grateful for the glimpse into Dr. Murphy’s spectacular talent, but more so into his big fat heart.

The Good Doctor, ABC and Sony’s highly anticipated new medical drama is set to release September 25. Please join me in celebrating a win for the autism community. Awareness brings knowledge and knowledge brings power. I am thrilled to support this beautiful project.