Those who know me well know that autism is something that is close to my heart. My daughter, Abby, was diagnosed last year Asperger's Syndrome, a type of autism.
Autism comes in all shapes and sizes. It affects approximately 1 in 150. It affects more children than leukemia, muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, and juvenile diabetes. Yet it receives a fraction of the funding, and is allowed to be excluded from health insurance coverage in many states.
Autism is treatable. But it requires early intervention--as early as possible--to identify and treat it effectively. It is not something a child will "outgrow". It is not something that can be cured with discipline. It is a medical issue requiring interventions that, unfortunately, many families just don't have access to. We can do a lot better than that. Really, we can.
One thing many people don't know is the range of gifts people with autism can be blessed with. Incredible memory, exceptional math skills, intense natural musical ability, enhanced sensory perception, and exceptional problem solving skills are just a few of the gifts that can present. Nearly every child with autism that I have met has gifts that could benefit the world. If they are given the chance.
Today is World Autism Awareness Day. If you feel so inclined, search for your local autism group for more information, of any of the many other informational sites for autism. If you feel even more inclined (and you live in Ohio), contact your state representative and senator in support of HB 8--the bill currently in state House committee to level the insurance playing field for autism patients.
My daughter, Abby, is the light of my life. I would do anything for her, and I learn so much from her. She just turned 7 this year, and I love her exactly how she is. Someone asked me once, "If you could offer her a pill to take her autism away, would you do it?" I would never look down on any parent who said yes. Our struggles are minimal compared to what many families go through. But my personal answer was no. I love her exactly how she is. I love her silliness. I love her sense of humor. I love her kindness and how she always wants everyone to be happy. Her autism is part of her. My goal is for to grow up and be comfortable with herself--be comfortable in her own skin--and be able to have healthy, happy relationships with other people. That's what I want for her. She is an AWESOME kid.
Enough being all serious and stuff. Here's Miss Abby. :)
-a
