Autism is a bio-neurological developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3. Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills and cognitive function. Individuals with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions and leisure or play activities.
According to the CDC, an estimated 1 in 68 children in the U.S. are affected by Autism with a new government survey of parents suggesting that the numbers are closer to 1 in 45 children, ages 3-17, being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. In a South Korean study, the numbers were even worse with 1 in 38 children being affected by Autism, 2/3 of which were found in mainstream classrooms, previously undiagnosed and receiving no services.
This Saturday April 2nd, Autism Speaks is celebrating World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) with its international “Light It Up Blue” campaign to help shine a light on Autism. The goal of the day is to bring attention, awareness and understanding of Autism all over the world as a growing health concern that affects tens of millions worldwide. Thousands of iconic landmarks across the globe unite by shining blue lights in honor of the millions of individuals and families affected by Autism.
My ask is simple….please wear blue on Saturday April 2nd to show your support. I am also asking that you encourage as many people you know to do the same. Feel free to forward this email to any friends/family/colleagues as well. Let’s show the world how the power of the Eaton family can come together to shine a light on Autism Awareness!!
You can help us show Eaton’s support by snapping a photo of you, your family, friends, pets, etc wearing blue at some point during the day on Saturday. Then either forward the photo to me and I will compile them together or you can post them yourself to any/all social media you follow with #LIUB and #EatonAwareness.
Thank you all for taking the time to read this…the more people who are aware and are willing to speak up, the more we can push for earlier diagnosis, more advanced research, better treatments, and more educational resources/special needs teachers. There is no pill you can take, no medical treatment, no physical exam or x-ray for it to show up on…it takes knowledge of the signs, a proactive ask for diagnosis and a team of resources to help put you on a path…and even then there still aren’t a lot of definite answers to help you cope or let you know if you are on the right path.
If you or someone you know are concerned about their child’s development please pass the following links on to them:
Signs of Autism:
http://nationalautismassociation.org/resources/signs-of-autism/
Autism Facts and Stats:
http://www.autism-society.org/what-is/facts-and-statistics/
http://nationalautismassociation.org/resources/autism-fact-sheet/
Autism Speaks – Light It Up Blue Information:
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