An award-winning young entrepreneur from Derbyshire has talked about his autism diagnosis on a mental health platform which has been viewed more than a 1.2 million times.
Twelve-year-old Max Palfrey, who invented a range of clothing for people with sensory issues, has appeared on the children’s mental health show Jaaq Jnr, which is backed by private healthcare provider Bupa.
He travelled down to London to film the show and discussed how his own experiences with additional needs inspired him to set up the business Comfa and create a range of sensory-friendly t-shirts complete with built-in popits.
Max was just five years old when he was first diagnosed as autistic with Pathological Demand Avoidance and seven years old when he was identified as having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, as well as sensory processing and hypermobility.
In the eleven-minute programme, hosted by friends Freddie Xavi and Hughie Higginson, Max opens up about the challenges he faces, how friends can support him and gives his advice for anyone with similar diagnoses.
The show is a children’s version of the popular mental health platform Jaaq which stands for ‘just ask a question’ and aims to encourage young people to talk about mental health challenges.
“Hughie and Freddie were really nice and made me feel comfortable,” said Max.
“The organisers even called ahead to ask about my favourite snacks and had them ready for me when I arrived and had also adapted the studio to make it autism friendly.
‘I hope that anyone struggling with being autistic can gain something from the podcast. I want to help people who experience the same challenges as me.”
The interview is not Max’s first brush with fame; last year the youngster appeared on This Morning, where presenter Paddy McGuinness, after trying on a T-shirt, said he’d be ordering some for his own three children who also are autistic.
The material used in the clothing line is 93 per cent modal, a semi-synthetic fabric that is made from beech tree pulp, and seven percent elastane, with the seams encased on the inside. The washing and care instructions are also on a sticker that can simply be peeled off to stop the need for irritating labels.
“I couldn’t be prouder of Max, he has already achieved more than most 12-year-olds and wants to continue using his experiences to help others,” said Max’s father and business partner Matt Palfrey.
“The clothing range is entirely led by Max. He is never pushed; we are guided by him and what he can handle. I want this to be entirely his project.”
For further information visit www.comfa.co.uk.
Photo at the Jaaq Jr podcast shows Matt with Max Palfrey, Freddie Xavi and Hughie Higginson
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