April is here, and that means it is Autism Awareness Month.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impairs a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. This can be characterized by repetitive behaviors and habits, and a very narrow focus of interests and activities. Autism can show up in many different forms and come in a wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of disability, which is why it is classified as a Spectrum of disorders.
1 in 68 children are now being diagnosed on the spectrum and it can show up as early as six months of age. There is no known cause of Autism, but some theories include a faulty gene, a chemical imbalance, or lack of oxygen at birth. Contrary to the popular recent belief, vaccinations DO NOT cause Autism in children. The study has even been recounted by the main doctors on the case.
So what is so important about Autism Awareness Month? It is a month to raise awareness for people living with the disorder and raise money for more research efforts. Many different groups around the nation plan and organize different fundraising efforts. Here at App State, the Autism Speaks U club hosts an annual 5k run on the Greenway. I participate in this run every year to support the cause.
For the month of April, make sure you sport your multi-colored puzzle pieces in support of Autism Awareness. The puzzle piece represents the complexity of the disorder. Every case of Autism is different, just like every puzzle piece is different. It also supports the individuality of each person with Autism.
Photos:
http://www.runningforautism.com/
http://www.freddiemac.com/blog/notable/20140403_autism_in_workplace.html