Harry George Psaros: The Ultimate Warrior Dad Fighting for Autism Awareness

Harry George Psaros is a man who wears many hats. He is an Executive Neuroscience Account Specialist, a senior writer for Pittsburgh Sports Now, and a devoted family man. Also known as the "Pitt Guru" by legions of fans for his social media influence on University of Pittsburgh athletics, Psaros is a force of inspiration in the sports world.  

At home, he is a proud father to his two sons, Costa "Gus" and Maximos "Max." But what makes his journey as a parent even more remarkable is his role in Gus's life, who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Specifically, he was diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Gus's diagnosis was unexpected and became a turning point for Psaros and his family, impacting their lives in the most heartfelt ways.

Originally from the steel town of Weirton, WV, Harry Psaros' life is the epitome of perseverance and strong will. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and a minor in Physics and Philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh. Psaros later completed a health coach certification from the Institute of Integrated Nutrition.  

Looking at his educational background and professional achievements, it would be fitting to say that Psaros has been an allrounder in all aspects of his life. However, in 2007, when his son Gus was diagnosed with autism after concerns raised by his wife, Michelle, it was very challenging to adapt and acknowledge his son's condition.  

Psaros initially chose denial. He found it hard to believe that his son could have a condition that affected his social skills. A thousand emotions ran wild in his mind, and he faced a hard time reconciling his expectations with the reality of his son's diagnosis. However, as the family's bedrock, his mindset eventually shifted from denial to determination. He decided to fight for his son's development and well-being, together with Michelle, to provide the best support system for Gus. 

Psaros shares this chapter of his life in his memoir and guidebook, From Struggle to Strength: A Father's Journey with Autism and the Power of Hope and Positivity, as a source of inspiration and encouragement for parents of children on the Autism spectrum. 

In his book, Psaros pulls no punches. He openly discusses the isolation and fear he and his wife felt after Gus's diagnosis, likening the experience to being stranded on an island. But it wasn't long before they found their way, learning to channel the strength and positivity necessary to build a life filled with hope and joy for their family, especially Gus. Psaros uses this journey to speak directly to fathers, who he believes often struggle to form a wholesome connection with their child's autism diagnosis. 

Psaros's personal mantra, "If you are breathing air, you should be helping others," shines brightly through his many roles as a leader, advocate, and father. In addition to being a board member of the Autism Caring Center and President of North Fayette Township's Parks and Recreation Board, he also founded the North Fayette P.A.L.S., an organization designed for children and youth with special needs.  

The book itself is a rallying cry to parents, especially fathers, encouraging them to adopt a warrior's mindset to help their children with special needs reach their full potential.  

Inspired by his background in martial arts, Psaros greatly relies on positivity and mental fortitude when raising children with ASD. But this isn't just for the dads. Moms, too, will find solace and strength in reading Psaros' work, where the lessons of love, patience, and persistence leap off every page. 

From Struggle to Strength is not a conventional guidebook on ASD but a collection of lived experiences and trials and errors a dad had to go through to find what worked best for his child. It is an unfiltered, raw, and beautifully written story that shows us that while an autism diagnosis can be daunting, it can be managed with the right knowledge, modalities, treatment, and environment.  

Harry Psaros' story, both as a father and advocate, is living proof that no challenge is too great when it comes to family; you need to face it with hope, optimism, and a fighting spirit. 

For anyone looking to be inspired by a true inspiration in the autism community, Psaros' book is a must-read, offering not just guidance but the kind of deep emotional support parents on this journey so desperately need.  

In the words of Psaros himself, "You've got this!"