April is Autism Awareness Month

April is Autism Awareness Month

April is “Autism Awareness Month“.  I am quite aware of autism every day of the year.  My son Nick, is 22.  He has Down syndrome and autism.  He requires constant supervision 24/7, 365 days of the year.  There is some funding through the state which helps pay for his adult day program and respite care.  In addition, he receives Supplemental Security Income monthly.  But this doesn’t come close to covering the costs. Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder, yet most under funded.

Putting a ribbon on the car bumper is not going to do enough to help families living with autism.

My hope is for more acceptance, compassion, research, funding and programs to support families living with autism.  And, we need more “family” bathrooms to be accessible in public facilities.  Nick can’t go into the men’s rest room by himself.  It would not be safe for him to go alone.  Not to mention that he would flush the toilet repeatedly, then run every single faucet full blast.

Autism statistics in 2000 were 1 in 150.  By 2010 it was 1 in 68.  Autism is not going anywhere.  In fact, people with autism are growing up and aging out of the school system like my son, Nick.  Families with autism need more support.  We can’t do it alone.  That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa

Follow Nick on Social Media:

Facebook and Pinterest  @Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism

Instagram  @nickdsautism

Twitter @tjunnerstall