To the editor:
April is Autism Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of the issues that affect those with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Here are some facts about Autism.
Autism now affects 1 in 110 children and 1 in 70 boys
Autism prevalence figures are growing
More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined
Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
Autism costs the nation over $35 billion per year, a figure expected to significantly increase in the next decade
Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases
Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism
There is no medical detection or cure for autism
April 2, 2012 is designated Light It Up Blue to help shine a light on autism. You can show your support by simply replacing your porch light with a blue bulb. My porch light will be shining blue to show my support for those with autism. I have become very aware of autism, you see my grandson Logan is autistic. Logan is NOT RETARDED, he is a very bright and loveable little 4 year old.
Some of you might have seen the Autsim Awareness Puzzle Ribbons or the colorful puzzle material, this is the symbol of the autism community. There will be a small puzzle flag in my yard too to show my support for my grandson and others with autism.
I hope that others will become more aware of autism and show their support.
Roxanne Dallmann
New Ulm