April is National Autism Awareness Month, and there is currently still no cure.
We hear about it on CNN through Jenny McCarthy, Holly Robinson-Peete and Larry King, and even in our news.
Autism can be very mild to severe, as there as many spectrums to it. It usually affects males four times more than females.
Autistic children make little or no eye contact, and they may flap their hands or rock and both. Speech is usually delayed, and autistic children have no real fear of danger. They appear not to hear at times, they resist cuddling and like to be in their own world. They can be unable to make a conversation, may watch spinning objects and lose acquired ability of words previously learned.
Researchers have been working very hard to unravel the cause of autism. Autism is now classified as an epidemic affecting one out of 150 children.
ADVERTISEMENT
Some think autism was due to the MMR (measles/mumps/rubella) shots since many autistic children are diagnosed around 15 to 18 months of age, shortly after the shot is given. Some think it might be thermisol, a preservative in the MMR vaccines.
Whatever the cause, we need to give every autistic person hope. They count on us for support.
Please help me -- but more importantly, help them -- by kicking off April by donating to the Autism Speaks Foundation. Every dollar is tax-deductible and goes for research, causes and education, helping these individuals so that they, too, may have a more fulfilling life.
Please keep in mind that, if you have a child with autism, early intervention plays a huge a role in helping.
Anyone with questions can call me at 343-5555.
