Autism affects 5 out of every 10,000 people (DSM-IV-TR, 2000). Unfortunately this is inaccurate. Autism affects many more people than this staggering number. When we consider the lives of mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, grandparents, teachers, neighbors and friends, we are talking about thousands of people.
Although we reside in a country that highly values
education and acceptance, there are many misconceptions about autism.
Despite the efforts of many activists, most do not know enough
about the disability to be comfortable around someone with autism.
Instead they feel uncomfortable, stare and/or whisper amongst
themselves. Behaviors such
as this do not foster growth; instead they make an autistic person shy
away and feel embarrassed, or un-liked and ill at ease. Ideally, the
world would be more understanding and compassionate.
Autistic individuals, and all individuals who have been
discriminated against or misunderstood would no longer have to feel that
pain and embarrassment.
The root of this problem stems lack of knowledge.
Generations past have had sour opinions of those with disability,
deeming them unacceptable, unworkable, stupid, and at best they should
be kept locked away. Not
only is this not true it is ludicrous.
People tend to fear what they do not understand.
ASDs or Autism Spectrum Disorders remains a mystery that is
slowly being unraveled. It is essential that we learn from the mistakes
of the past and work toward a more accepting future.
Stephen Shore, author of
Beyond the Wall states
"The responsibility to help
current and future generations of children with autism and Asperger’s
syndrome develop their strengths in order to lead meaningful lives in
our society belongs to all of us.
That includes people on or near the spectrum, family members,
teachers and anyone who comes in contact with people with autism and
Asperger’s syndrome. "
My name is Renee. My brother was diagnosed with autism thirteen years ago. Autism has affected my life in innumerable ways. Has it affected yours? Maybe you know someone with autism, or someone who has an autistic child. Maybe you have been hearing about autism but you do not know what it is. I designed this site to help educate about autism.
Since autism affects so many people it is our job as a global community to educate ourselves about this disorder.