4.02.2008

world autism awareness day

I know I've been due for a post soon but this is just a quick one to let you know that today is World Autism Awareness Day. You can read more about it here.

Did you know ...

  • Autism affects as many as 1 in 150 children and 1 in 94 boys
  • Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the world
  • More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with diabetes, cancer, & AIDS combined
  • Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism
  • There is no medical detection or cure for autism, but early diagnosis and intervention improve outcomes
  • Autism does not discriminate by geography, class, or ethnicity

My nephew, Cade, has autism. He is now six years old and has just started kindergarten. His vocabulary has grown so much in the past two years -- he can even count to ten in Spanish. He is so full of energy and can always make you laugh.

My sister's best friend, Aurora, has started a Walk Now for Autism team for the Bay Area walk in Pleasanton, California on Saturday, June 7th called the "Blastoff for Cade Team". Their goal is to raise $3,000 to help raise awareness about the increasing prevalence of autism and the need for increased research funding to combat this complex disorder. Please consider making a donation to support their team.

We love you, Cade!

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