For much of his life, Teddy Boragina felt trapped by anxiety, depression and undiagnosed autism. Now, at 40, he’s stepping into a new chapter filled with connection, confidence and purpose, thanks to Waypoint’s HERO Centre and an unexpected source of fulfilment: a part-time job at a coffee cart.
Growing up in Toronto and Prince Edward Island, Teddy struggled. “In hindsight, the really obvious thing is that I had autism, but nobody knew,” he said. “I was bullied and had a hard time making friends. I don’t like thinking about those years too much.”
Despite those hurdles, his life was on a somewhat typical path until 2008, when depression and fears of self-harm led to a six-week hospital stay. After a doctor diagnosed his autism, Teddy ended up on ODSP. For 15 years, he lived in isolation, going out only for necessities. “When COVID hit, my life didn’t change at all,” he recalled with a smirk.
By 2022, he had turned to alcohol and cannabis to cope. Then came a life-altering realization: he craved relationships, but was terrified of vulnerability.
My whole life shattered in front of my eyes. I thought I was an introvert, but I’m just an extrovert with anxiety.
Teddy Boragina, Waypoint HERO Patient
Having moved to Penetanguishene nine years ago, he posted on a local Facebook page in his quest to find human connection. Someone suggested the HERO Centre, where Recreation Therapist Tamara Burke convinced him to join activities like hiking, pool, cooking and art.
“It’s about socializing, which is exactly what I was looking for,” he said, adding he has also accessed cognitive behavioural therapy to help manage his anxiety and allow him to rebuild his confidence.
Burke has been a central figure in Teddy’s journey, even making sure he gets a ride to the HERO Centre if the public transit schedule doesn’t meet his needs: “She treats me like I’m important. It makes me feel valued.”
Later, an opportunity arose through the HERO Centre’s coffee cart program, which trains participants in customer service and job readiness. At first, Teddy resisted — “I don’t like working with money, I don’t even like coffee” — but he realized he needed to get out of the house. Since late spring 2024, he has worked at the cart from Tuesday to Thursday, finding purpose and connection. Surrounded by supportive co-workers, he’s more comfortable than ever.
I’m a radically different person now. I’m doing so much that I never did, like hanging out with friends.
Teddy Boragina
For others struggling, his message is clear: programs like those offered at the HERO Centre can be life-changing. And sometimes small opportunities — like serving coffee — can make all the difference.
April 2 is World Autism Day.
The day aims to raise awareness and understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), promote acceptance and inclusion for autistic individuals, and advocate for their rights and well-being. Please consider donating to Waypoint to ensure programs like the HERO Centre are able to continue to support our community.