Join DREF in recognizing Autism Awareness Month

Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is impacted. There is not just one type of Autism. Black children often get diagnosed later than white children; the average age of diagnosis for Black children is 5.4 years, compared to the national average of 4.9 years. Time to diagnosis and treatment make a significant difference in long-term outcomes. Autism awareness advocate and activist Zolandria Parker shares her experience as a parent with an autistic child.

At age 2, my son was diagnosed with Autism. After numerous medical visits, I was told that he would “make little to no more progress in his growth and it became my mission to prove the doctors wrong! With early intervention and loving care, he has made great strides in his development over the years! Autism is not a disability, it is a different ability!

For more information, visit www.autismspeaks.org