World Autism Awareness Day 2013

Today is World Autism Awareness day. Word is spreading but there is still a long way to go. A huge lack of understanding and training of professionals within the education system , the NHS and the general public means that many children are misunderstood  and stigmatised.

This year for the first time I have been aware of a huge push to educate people about Autism.Celebrity Melanie Sykes who herself has a son with Autism appeared on the Lorraine show  this morning to talk about her son . Our local radio station Radio Cumbria interviewed Amanda Bland a local NAS representative and Jemma Swales who runs her own business working with and supporting Autistic children and The North West Evening mail published an article about local buildings, including the Town Hall, lighting up in blue to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day.

Locally the Furness branch of our N.A.S organised a balloon release and picnic in our local park. Typically my son was too sleepy to attend, having been awake until 4.00am . Other children refused to leave the house - the ordeal was too overwhelming.But for those that did there were free rides on a mini steam train , cupcakes and helium balloons with their names on them to spread the word that it's OK to be Autistic.Every child is different and if you spend time getting to know them then you may well get a pleasant surprise!

 The day was a huge success and an opportunity to bring parents and carers together.It's only by combining forces that conditions will change. We are told that early intervention provides the best possible outcomes for our children. Until early diagnosis and help is available we won't stop our campaign !