World Autism Day dawns anew April 2nd, bringing attention to the challenges faced by those living with the developmental disability while celebrating the strides made in terms of treatment and supports.
First marked in 2008, World Autism Day was designated by a United Nations’ General Assembly resolution. Since then, the second day of April has been recognized as an annual day for UN member countries, Canada among them, to bring attention to the disorder by calling for continued research and supports.
Autism Ontario, with the theme Celebrate The Spectrum, is calling for not only more recognition of those living with autism and caregivers but also for more inclusivity. Here in Peterborough, a number of organizations – Canopy Support Services and Kinark among them – provide support and programs for autistic people of all ages.
About 1 in 66 children and youth are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Canada. For families, an ASD diagnosis of presents significant emotional and financial challenges.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
