A 17‑year‑old will give a public talk later this month on how caring for snakes and other unusual animals has helped him manage long‑standing mental health challenges.
Jessie Quirk, who has ADHD, autism and severe social anxiety, will speak at the Erin Arts Centre in Port Erin on Tuesday, March 24 at 7pm.
His talk, The Secret Lives of Weird Pets: Snakes, Autism & Me, will explore how his four snakes, three Western Hognoses and a Corn snake, have supported his wellbeing and helped him build confidence.
The event is supported by Manx Wildlife Trust and will also feature reptiles from Allan Campbell, who is launching a new business, Zoo2You IOM.
Strand Vets will have a veterinary nurse in attendance.
Transform Mental Health
Jessie said the animals “saved my life in so many ways” and hopes the event will encourage young people to appreciate reptiles and invertebrates, as well as learn more about autism and the support available on the island.
“If I can help one person make a change, that’s all I need,” he said.
Dr Carmel Croukamp, Head of Engagement at MWT, praised Jessie’s willingness to share his experience, saying his knowledge and openness “carry real weight” for others facing similar challenges.
Tickets cost £5 for adults and £2 for under‑18s.
