Thursday, April 2, 2009

World Autism Awareness Day


Today (April 2) is designated by the UN as World Autism Awarenss Day. Most people know that Autism has been on the rise over the last 10 years. It is now diagnosed in 1 in 150 children and 1 in 96 boys...one of them is ours.


Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. It is part of a group of disorders known as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Today, 1 in 150 individuals is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors, such as obsessively arranging objects or following very specific routines. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe (Autism Speaks).


We're lucky. Brandon's symptoms are on the milder end of the spectrum and our other boys show no signs of autism. Currently, there are no effective means to prevent autism, no fully effective treatments, and no cure. Nobody really knows what causes autism. It will probably end up being like cancer, where there are many causes and many types. If you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism. They all have different symptoms and different treatments are effective for each one.


We're so proud of Brandon and how hard he works everyday...especially having to put up with a Mom for whom patience has never been a strength :) Ellen Notbohm wrote a book called, "Ten Things Every Child With Autism Wishes You Knew". I like a quote from the end, "I didn't choose to have autism. Remember it's happening to me, not you. Without your support, my chances of successful, self-reliant adulthood are slim. With your support and guidance, the possiblities are broader than you might think. I promise you, I'm worth it". Thank you to everyone in our lives who gives our son that love and support everyday!

4 comments:

Laurie said...

Great post! We love you!

Lisa said...

He is ABSOLUTELY worth it! I totally agree that awareness is key. Autism is now and is a part of our culture. Keep up the education! Did anyone ever tell you that you would make a fabulous OT? :)

Ware Family said...

Thanks for the post -- your son is beautiful.

Herlehy Family said...

That post brought tears to my eyes, I love the quote at the end. Brandon is such and AMAZING boy, I feel so blessed to be his teacher and friend.