January 1, Amy Schumer’s Husband Diagnosed With Autism

Wyatt’s Take

• Amy Schumer’s husband was diagnosed with autism as an adult.
• Autism can affect folks of any age, not just kids.
• More families are discovering how common ASD is today.

Comedian Amy Schumer recently talked about her husband, chef Chris Fischer, being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as an adult. This story highlights that autism isn’t just something doctors find in kids, but can show up later in life too.

ASD is a lifelong condition that begins early but sometimes goes unnoticed until adulthood. It affects how folks communicate, make friends, and even how they handle change.

Dr. Robert Diamond, a retired director with decades of experience in autism, explained that autism used to be rare, but now it’s identified in 1 out of 44 children. The exact cause often isn’t known, but both genes and development play a part.

“It is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is often referred to as a ‘spectrum condition’ that affects people differently and to varying degrees.”

Adults on the spectrum might prefer being alone, keep strict routines, or have trouble picking up on facial cues. Many go years without knowing or getting support.

“And people don’t know much about autism, they’re just like, ‘Oh does [my husband] love to count? Should we drop a bunch of straws on the floor?’ And I’m like, ‘No, actually do it, he’ll probably love it,’” Schumer joked while on TV.

After changes in 2013 to the medical guidelines, more adults get a diagnosis today, giving families some answers and support.

“The broadener ASD diagnosis has helped with understanding many atypical individuals whom we previously saw as eccentric, odd, reserved, shy, withdrawn, rigid, sensitive, ‘different,’ and now the ASD diagnosis gives them and their families, friends, co-workers and health care providers a way to understand and accept their behaviors and sometimes provide more support,” explained Diamond.

“Everyone does not have to be the same. Our understanding and accepting atypical people of any age can protect them from bullying, rejection, failure and isolation and depression.”

Amy Schumer said her husband’s diagnosis has helped her family understand him better. “I really did find the best partner ever. … He’s actually diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and what happens when you get diagnosed with autism, it’s like getting a superpower. Like all of his behavior is kind of excused now.”

If you’re curious about ASD, recognizing the signs can help more folks get the help and understanding they deserve. Read more at the link below.

Wyatt Matters

Stories like this show how important it is for everyday Americans to look out for one another and to support folks who may seem a little different. Understanding goes a long way in building stronger, kinder communities across the heartland.

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