To the editor:
April is Autism Awareness Month.
What is autism, anyway? It is a developmental disorder that impacts behavior, particularly communication, social and daily living skills. Some with autism engage in chanting, sensory sensitivities, and react negatively to changes in routine. It is defined on a spectrum because symptoms can very much vary depending on the level of severity.
There is no direct cause, and researchers conclude it is likely caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Autism is a lifetime disorder but a variety of treatments offer management of symptoms to support both the individual as well as their families to cope throughout the lifespan.
Boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls. Currently the estimated prevalence of autism is 1 in 40, as the rates in the U.S. have steadily increased in the past 10 years.
On a more personal level, my son Nic was diagnosed with autism at the age of 2 through a detailed evaluation done by Riley hospital doctors and therapists. After spending a year on a wait list, he was awarded an autism waiver which funded therapy services into our home. He was enrolled in special ed classes in Brown County schools (wonderful teachers and admin and staff) as a stepping stone to a more structured/supported transition to DAMAR academy, where he lived in a dorm and finished his high school years. (Most difficult transition for this mom ever!)
I am proud to say that he has progressed to the point that he now enjoys Johnny Cash and benefits from music therapy and demonstrates MOSTLY calm behavior. (But we all have bad days!) He has increased verbal skills, interacts with others, has a nonstop memory and a sense of humor. He most recently discovered “selfies” and loves taking them. He describes himself when asked as “happy” and a “party animal,” a name given to him long ago by the fraternity guys from IU who acted as his staff and were a great support to both Nic and to me.
So, please celebrate Autism Awareness Month with a little compassion and understanding by becoming aware of this disorder and recognizing it, because it is exists in all communities everywhere. People seem to fear what they do not understand. Tolerance and understanding of those who are “different” is important and appreciated!
Happy April (Autism Awareness Month)!
Nic’s mom, Paula Roberts, Brown County
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