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My son Adam is on the autistic spectrum. I have known this since he was a baby. He was finally diagnosed last year, after fighting almost 6 years for his diagnosis. This means he will have the access to the correct support and facilities as he grows.
Autism is a lifelong neurological condition. You can't "catch it" it affects a persons interaction, communication and imagination on a social basis. Adam's personality and little quirks and obsessions are because he is autistic, and I wouldn't have him any other way. Yes it's difficult when he has a meltdown. He may scream, shout, hit out, self harm, swear or run. He's not naughty, it's part of his autism. This is because he processes things and sees the world differently. Imagine you were stranded in a foreign country, you can't speak or understand the language, & can only pick out the odd word. How confused and frustrating it would be. This can be what it's like for someone with autism.
April is considered to be autism awareness month. However it's all day, every day, every year. I'm wearing my ridiculous cow print onesie 6th April to raise awareness, and hopefully lots of money for Leeds ABC support group.
ABC provide activities for children and young people on the autistic spectrum. We've accessed their school holiday arts and craft fun days, outdoor activity days, family swim sessions, autism training and information sessions. These are all free of charge to families, funded by ABC they are a wonderful organisation, fronted by Mandy and Susan, two dedicated parents of young people on the spectrum. They do it voluntarily. I'd like to give something back, so please dig deep. Plus I look silly!
For more information on autism and Leeds ABC, please check out-
http://www.autism.org.uk/get-involved/tmi/film.aspx
http://www.abcleeds.org.uk
