OCTOBER IS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH...
- Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a neurological with no known specific cause(s).
- In Canada, 1 in 165 children are born with ASD (Ten years ago that number was 1 in 1000)
- There are approximately 200,000 Canadians living with ASD, affecting the lives of many families.
- In most provinces, many treatments, such as Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI) and Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) can cost between $50,000-$70,000 and are not covered by universal health insurance.
- Autism is a lifelong issue- For those living with ASD, their families and our country.
Over the course of 6 months and 5,500 kms the many sentiments I have received from those affected, their families, the support and service providers, many politicians, many businesses and many others who dream of a more inclusive society is that:
- There is a greater need for research into Autism;
- A greater need for support and services for those affected by ASD and there families;
- A greater need for public education about ASD;
- A National Autism Strategy (similar to other health related issues); and
- ACTION from someone other then the children and families who deal with the issue 24/7
Hello Winnipeg! This morning, at 8:30am Terry and I run and rolled from the Perimeter Highway of Winnipeg to City Hall (about 20kms) where we were met by Mayor Sam Katz and Sandra McKay, Autism Society Manitoba.
In the afternoon, Terry and I were invited to Sturgeon Heights Collegiate as part of there first ever Pep Rally. It was great that the weather co-operated! Special thanks to Marnie and Larry Wachs for including us in the festivities, as well as all the students, sports teams, cheerleaders and band for making it a lively event!
More events in Winnipeg are happening this weekend....I'll keep you updated real soon...
The Dream Continues.....And Rolls On....
1 comment:
"ACTION from someone other then the children and families who deal with the issue 24/7"
I really hear you on this point especially. I think it's a good idea to check in with the various autism organizations/societies to let them know what your priorities are, and to check to see if they are standing up for what is important to you and your family.
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