Above / Let it be a banner month for Autism Awareness in Naperville and throughout the world, with better understanding that will last all year long. (PN File Photo)
For many years in April, PN’s aim has been to join local initiatives to create awareness and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as well as its impact on lives here in Naperville and throughout the world.
The reported number of children identified as being on the spectrum continues to grow. New information recently provided indicates that Autism rates are much higher than originally thought. In fact, about a dozen years ago reports by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) indicated that one in 68 children was identified with ASD. More recent research resulting from data captured in 2016 indicates that ASD now affects about one in every 40 children.
Since 2010, April 2 has been the day designated to “Light It Up Blue” by Autism Speaks, an autism advocacy organization, as a way to raise awareness for the complicated and misunderstood disorder that has no boundaries around the world.
In recent years, residents in Naperville have joined the initiative to raise awareness throughout April by wearing something blue and replacing regular porch light bulbs with blue ones. The Moser Tower has been illuminated with blue lights.
2019 Mayoral Proclamation will be read at City Council Meeting on April 3
According to Emy Trotz, Executive Assistant to the Mayor, during the April 3, 2019, City Council Meeting, a Mayoral proclamation will recognize that April is Autism Awareness Month in Naperville. Representatives from Autism Home Support Services, Turning Pointe, Little Friends, Giant Steps, Western DuPage Special Recreation Association, Ray Graham, School Districts 203 and 204 likely will be on hand to accept the proclamation designated to shine light on the fact that autism can affect all ethnic and economic backgrounds worldwide.
Cheers to greater understanding and awareness of Autism in Naperville and beyond all during April and throughout the years to come.
RELATED PAST PN STORIES:
Little Friends, Inc., with stories by Mike Briggs, President/CEO Little Friends, Inc.
Journey with Autism by Joey Rosenbloom / Collection of monthly columns
Moser Tower will ‘Light It Up Blue’
Archive of stories relating to Autism on PN’s website
