It's baffling. It's misunderstood. It's talked about in celebrity circles and in ordinary homes. Yet most of us, including myself don't know that much about it. Today, World Autism Day, would be a great day for both you and I to take a minute to learn more about Autism and what we can do about it.

What is Autism? According to the Autism Speaks website it's a general term for a group of complex disorders in brain development. There are many disorders that fall under this very broad and general term autism. Among those are Asperger Syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder. Many of these are characterized by varying degrees in social interaction,repetitive behaviors, and verbal and non-verbal communication behaviors.

It is estimated that 1 in 68 American children are on the autism spectrum. By gender, 1 in 42 American boys and 1 in 189 American girls are affected by Autism and its symptoms.  Each case of Autism is unique so it's very difficult to classify symptoms, behaviors, and individuals in a general way.

That's one of the reasons so many people like me, have trouble wrapping ourselves around the condition and how we can help. It is incumbent upon us to understand that we don't need to understand everything to make a difference.

Today is World Autism Day.  It was established in 2007 by the United Nations. It is a day when we should all spend time learning more about Autism and how it affects families right here in Acadiana.  In fact you can participate in this years 9th Annual Walk for Hope at Blackham Coliseum. The event will be held Saturday, April 11th beginning at 7am.

While walking is nice and would be greatly appreciated, talking and more importantly action on all of our parts is what is going to bring about a better understanding and ultimately a solution to Autism. I intend to do that, I hope you will as well.

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