Did you know according to the CDC 1 out of every 110 births in the US results in an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis? Even more astounding, for boys born in the US, the rate rises to 1 out of every 70 births. Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the world, estimated to effect 67 million people across the globe. With numbers like these it's very likely that we all know, or will know, an individual with ASD. Just as with Breast Cancer Awareness Month or American Diabetes Month, Autism Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise funds for research, hopefully bringing us closer to a cure. However, in addition to this long term goal, promoting awareness brings about understanding and acceptance, goals that are essential to the present.
So let's dedicate this month to educating ourselves about ASD and continuing to support the families whose every day lives are effected by autism. Ask questions. Speak openly. Get the conversation moving. Parents with children on the spectrum are just as eager to share their child's talents, achievements or hardships as any parent with children not on the spectrum. The more comfortable we become with the unique skills, gifts and challenges of an individual with ASD, the better we will be at supporting the ASD community as a whole.
In honor of Autism Awareness Month, I'd like to highlight the work of Autism Families CONNECTicut, an organization "dedicated to providing social, recreational, cultural and educational opportunities for children and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders". Seeing a lack of social programming for children with ASD in CT, Jackie Procyk and Leah Moon, mother and grandmother to a lovely 7 year old boy with autism, filled the void by founding AFC. "Many children with Autism Spectrum Disorders face immense hurdles when participating in standard sports and activities. AFC focuses on the unique needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to provide families with meaningful access to sensory-friendly, appropriate activities. These include sports, music, dancing, physical recreation, cultural activities, and more."
Check out the following video highlighting both the purpose and success of this great organization.
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