Aspies For Freedom

I just received a virtual Christmas card from the NAS. You can view it online at http://dotm1.net/cr.asp?i=33097830&EmMai...ds=notrack (the reference to the Christmas tree might make more sense if you do).

Am I the only one who finds the tone patronising? After all, there are any number of autistic (and neurotypical) adults who find Christmas stressful - if they belong to the cultural tradition of celebrating it, that is. Contrary to a certain version of the Santa Claus myth, not everyone celebrates Christmas.

Merry Christmas!

and thank you for

your support!

from everyone at

The National Autistic Society


This is no ordinary Christmas tree. It’s based on one of the special symbols that we use to help children with autism communicate. As many of you will know, autistic children can find Christmas a very frightening time with new and confusing things to deal with and huge disruption to their routine. For parents it is heartbreaking to see their children suffering at what is meant to be such a happy time.

This year we’re launching a special appeal to raise £20,000 to help autistic children share in the magic of Christmas. Will you send a gift to help light up a child’s life this Christmas? Simply click on the donate button below to make your gift, or to find out more click here.

Donate

Vodafone


The National Autistic Society

I must say it doesn't offend me at all. By and large, I think the NAS is doing a good job.

Stella

It's probably not meant to be patronising, but it is a misleading description.  There are many autistic kids who love the sparkling lights, tinsel, etc.  I remember playing with the Christmas tree for hours when I was little.  The tree was almost more interesting than the presents!

Greetings,

I've never had a problem with the NAS and there dosent seem to be anythign wrong with that card

I emailed the NAS back and asked: "What about autistic adults? Aren't they entitled to 'special Christmas gifts'?". Not that I'm holding out much hope of a reply.

Sjo, would be nice if they said adults were entitled, and made a greetings card via Asperger United, that would be a refreshing change.

I've heard of this guy who celebrates Christmas every day. Wouldn't it be funny if he turned out to be an Aspie?!

I have seen a documentary on him and wondered that at first. But having seen him on a few shows it doesnt seem very realistic and may just be a publicity stunt on his behalf.

If you don't want to celebrate giftmas (as i call it) then don't celebrate it. Seems pretty simple. Personally, I love this time of year except for certain aspects (the "goodwill to all men" crap for example).

Is that really necessary?

Kev, it was mentioned on another thread, Iron Man currently has his account suspended, he cannot post but can still read the site.
It was mainly the violent themed and threatening/insulting posts.

He is welcome to contact the admin and discuss it further.

It wasn't a joke, there is a person that does that, supposedly.

The last time I heard of him, he'd been told by his doctor to quit his daily Christmas eating regime. I haven't heard whether he followed his doctor's orders.

I can't remember the guy's name, but it's not Morgan Freeman! (Maybe that's an idea for his next documentary - investigate the health effects of eating Christmas dinner every day...)

This is him -

A MAN who has spent £250,000 celebrating Christmas daily for 12 years is releasing a single.

The new song by hit-hungry crooner Andy Park, aka Mr Christmas, is fittingly called It's Christmas Every Day.

Since "becoming Mr Christmas" in 1993, the 45-year-old electrician has eaten 109,500 sprouts. He devours 25 of them with a full roast-turkey dinner daily before watching a recording of the Queen's speech, sherry in hand.

"I've been doing this for 12 years and I'm going to be doing it for another 12. I've never, ever got bored of it. I absolutely love Christmas," he said.

http://news.scotsman.com/uk.cfm?id=2319592005

He seems like a great self publicist, with very little story or talent behind it.
That's why I am dubious that he really does have xmas every day.