World Autism
Awareness Day
For the many of us who see our loved ones with autism struggle to
speak, eat, sleep, communicate, make friends, stay safe, have a
conversation, be comfortable, or struggle because they’re bullied or
mistreated, we want to make sure they have no such struggles throughout
their lives, especially when we’re gone. Blue has been assigned as the
color that symbolizes their struggle, their hope, their state of
being–happy or sad. It has also been assigned as the color to make the
world stop and ask, “What is autism?”
Chances are that years ago we would have wanted to see the color blue
light up the Empire State Building, or see blue shirts on anyone who
recognizes a day like today. Being surrounded by that color may have
given us the opportunity to ask “What is autism” instead of simply
hearing the diagnosis, ironically, out of the blue. Better awareness
could have led to earlier intervention, which is key. For many,
understanding the research could make all the difference. For those who
know very little about autism, the color blue could mean a diagnosis at
age two rather than age three, or even two-and-a-half. Every second
counts.
On this World Autism Awareness Day, the recognition of the diagnosis
that now affects 1 in 110 will hopefully lead to an earlier diagnosis
and even more days of progress, resources, funding and action. It can
only serve to keep the issue at the top of the minds of everyone who
can make a difference. Many of us are fully aware of autism since we
live it and breathe it each day. But for those who do not, today is a
day for them to get to know autism, and to understand what our loved
ones need so eventually one day they may finally have it.
On this day and throughout this month, consider doing one of the
following:
- Support autism legislation or forward an autism action alert.
- Volunteer for one of the many great autism nonprofits or local autism
groups.
- Do something kind for a family affected by autism. Take them a gift
card for groceries, pay for a therapy session, offer to mow a lawn or
to babysit, encourage neighbors to lend a helping hand.
- Donate to one of the many great autism nonprofits.
- Change your profile picture to support autism throughout April.
- Tell someone about autism.
Seeing the many requests from struggling families, and knowing how low
on resources our community truly is, it is our hope that no matter what
color you wear today or how you support autism, the world will become
more aware and our community will become better equipped.
May lots of differences be made today and every day. Keep fighting for
it -
With continued hope,
The NAA Team |
Currclick
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