For those who do not know, the Toronto After Dark Film Festival was the first to take my writing seriously, listing my reviews as part of their media coverage even before I got my first press pass in 2012. I would begin a friendship with founder and festival director Adam Lopez, who despite being a full decade older than me, was on the same geeky wavelength. As the years passed by and the number of accredited press were reduced, I was always invited to return to Toronto After Dark.

That was threatened for the 2023 edition of the festival. Due to my history of autistic meltdowns, including an incident in line at the 2022 festival, many of the staff of Toronto After Dark were uncomfortable with me returning to cover the festival in person and I was offered to cover remotely instead. However, after explaining my struggles, Adam made the executive decision to allow me to return and even provided accommodations to ensure I no longer had conflicts in line.

I am forever grateful that Adam gave me this chance and it’s more sad that the 2023 festival would be the final time I see him, before he passed away from cancer earlier this year. I really wish that TIFF would be just as understanding and work with me to provide accommodations, as they are legally required to do under the AODA, as opposed to continuing to punish me.

Thanks for all the support given so far. Even if it doesn't change anything, it means the world to me.