Last week, I attended a session sponsored through the psychology department about raising awareness of those affected by autism, and giving information on an organization that does just that. Essential Pieces is a structured educational group that strives to improve the information and assistance available to parents, siblings, and professionals affected by autism. It is continuing to grow, with a branch just established here in Richmond. While offering important information and assistance, Essential Pieces is also a support group that is helping several families across Virginia.
I was grateful to have attended that session. Having worked closely with someone with autism, I am always intrigued, fascinated by, and excited for the increase in awareness of ASD. For the past five years, I have worked as a therapist for a child who suffers from autism. Zack was diagnosed with autism when he was three, and now at age eleven, there is a substantial difference between where he was then and where he is now. Zack's Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program is run through the Center for Autism and Related Disorders. A specialist from CARD, who has been working with Zack since his diagnosis, has been a huge help in training therapists for Zack's program, and it is because of this program and the information CARD is providing his family, that Zack has made such great progress.
Organizations like Essential Pieces and Card are so inspiring. Autism affects a wide range of people, whether you are a parent, sibling, friend, distant relative, professional, or ABA therapist, and it's important that we continue to raise awareness for the cause.
No comments:
Post a Comment