Aspies For Freedom

I am provoked to write this letter in response to all of the recent media attention that autism has received. First, I want to say that public awareness is extremely important and I appreciate the media's effort to increase this. However, sometimes in conveying the "tragedy" of autism, the media loses sight of the unique and special individual behind the label. When the deficits and behavioral problems associated with autism are emphasized, we often overlook the strengths and abilities that individuals on the autism spectrum possess. These are the very strengths that have the potential to grow when nurtured by parents, teachers and the community at large.

I have met countless parents who feel stressed out, frustrated and hopeless at times. However, each one of these parents exhibits unconditional love and dedication to his or her child. Many cannot fathom who they would be or what their life would be like without their autistic child. Raising their child with autism has provided them with lessons in life and personal growth that could not have been achieved otherwise.

It is not my intent to downplay the daily hardships that parents face, but more so to create a shift in the way we perceive families and their children with autism. Instead of instantly resorting to feeling sorry for the parents, look beyond. You will see the joy, laughter and happiness that the autistic child brings to their family.

Kim Richards, Chico