I have a son with Autism.
I still find myself, almost daily, trying to stop my ever-racing mind and acknowledge this truth that is still so hard to believe. Before Dubbers, “Autism” was something I knew very little about, and, quite frankly, I had no reason to know or understand it. I had seen the movie Rainman, but never realized there was a formal diagnosis for Dustin Hoffman’s character. He was just a little “weird” and incredibly talented at the same time. I did not have any friends or family on the Autism Spectrum…or at least that I (or they for that matter) knew about. Back in the 1970’s and 80’s, it was more rare and thought to affect only 1 in 1,000. The statistic published just this past January stated Autism Spectrum Disorder now affects about 1 of every 41 children (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/u-s-autism-rates-appear-to-be-stabilizing/).
I can understand why, until one is directly affected by a family member or friend, most choose to bypass learning more about this neurological and developmental disorder. After reading the above recent statistic; however, one may want to reconsider. With the growing prevalence of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), children are bound to be exposed to kids like Dubbers, whether it be in school, at a birthday party or on the playground. And no, Autism is not contagious. I recently read a post on Facebook from a very naive mother asking whether she should request her son be put in a different class due to befriending another child who possibly had Autism. While this post made me completely nauseous, it also reminded me of several parents who actually thanked me for putting Dubbers in a class with their child. Different, not less!
Ten years ago, Autism Speaks launched World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd to raise awareness about people with Autism around the world. The objective is not a monetary measure, but truly a day dedicated to acknowledging and increasing understanding and appreciation for those affected. Everyone should know someone affected as they are truly incredible people. Dubbers’ biggest challenge is communicating, yet he has taught me greater life lessons then anyone with a voice: Take nothing for granted, be patient and show empathy, as everyone has a story.
One of my favorite quotes sums it up so well, “Bravery: Knowing the world doesn’t always understand you, but, going out into it anyway” (The AWEnesty of Autism). As with any disability or disease, those affected did not ask for it. Yet they have no choice but to push forward…and that is what they do. Next time you hear a story or come across an article on Autism, or, better yet, meet someone who you think may be affected, take the time to understand, accept and appreciate.
