Today is the Day to Light It Up Blue
Light It Up Blue is an event sponsored by Autism Speaks which happens on April 2, World Autism Awareness Day. During the event, businesses across the world show their support for the autism community by lighting up their building with blue lights. Events and activities planned on 6 continents and more than 60 countries around the globe.
People across the country show their support by wearing blue, too. This is intended to raise international awareness of autism as a growing public health crisis.
What is Autism?
- Autism is a bio-neurological developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3.
- Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function. Individuals with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.
- Individuals with autism often suffer from numerous co-morbid medical conditions which may include: allergies, asthma, epilepsy, digestive disorders, persistent viral infections, feeding disorders, sensory integration dysfunction, sleeping disorders, and more.
- Autism is diagnosed four times more often in boys than girls. Its prevalence is not affected by race, region, or socio-economic status. Since autism was first diagnosed in the U.S. the incidence has climbed to an alarming one in 88 children in the U.S.
- Autism itself does not affect life expectancy, however research has shown that the mortality risk among individuals with autism is twice as high as the general population, in large part due to drowning and other accidents.
- Currently there is no cure for autism, though with early intervention and treatment, the diverse symptoms related to autism can be greatly improved and in some cases completely overcome.
Autism Facts & Stats
- Autism now affects 1 in 88 children.
- Boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls.
- About 40% of children with autism do not speak. About 25%–30% of children with autism have some words at 12 to 18 months of age and then lose them. Others might speak, but not until later in childhood.
- Autism greatly varies from person to person (no two people with autism are alike).
- The rate of autism has steadily grown over the last twenty years.
- Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder, yet most underfunded.
- Children with autism do progress – early intervention is key.
- Autism is treatable, not a hopeless condition.
There are so many ways OUR community can be involved in bringing autism awareness. If you’d like more information consider attending this event to honor those who are affected by Autism.
The 4th Annual Balloon Launch
Century Village in Burton
Saturday April 12 starting at 2:00 p.m.
For more information please contact Rachel Dannemiller at jasons_ma@yahoo.com
