April is Autism Awareness month.
A word I never imagined would be part of my everyday life.
A word that has brought saddness and, in the very same breath, the most amazing little boy I have ever encountered.
During April I want to spend a bit more time talking about autism and sharing resources. Today I am going to start with the basics: What is Autism? and What is Autism? (video) and Autism Today
The above Enough is Enough logo was designed as a way to raise money
for research, advocacy, education, outreach, etc. I have chosen to donate all my profits
from the sale of any of my Cafe Press Enough is Enough items to the Autism Society of America's Getting the Word Out campaign which is focused directly on increasing awareness: early diagnosis = early treatment/education/help for the entire family and, hopefully, a better quality of life for the person with autism.
Thanks to those of you who have already purchased something - your support is greatly appreciated.
There are lots of different controversies surrounding causes, treatment, etc of autism. So much of that can be overwhelming, confusing, and downright frustrating for parents. My goal is simply to bring awareness, to tell Simon's story, and to share our experiences as a family - what it means for us in our everyday lives.
The work you do is amazing.You are bringing awareness to people who might otherwise not have known about autism. Thank you.
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Beautiful logo Ali...
I have learned so much about Autism from you and from your stories about Simon. Thank you for sharing.
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Thank you Ali for sharing such important issues! It's so important to raise the awareness!
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You are so amazing...i mean seriously...how do you do it all?
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Ali, thanx for reminding everybody to think about it, read about it, and understand about it!
grz
Revlie
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Can you please run for President? I would vote for you!
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Thank you Ali, I look forward to learning more.
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Love hearing these types of things! To bring awareness to people that have no clue how fast this is effecting everyone. The documentary on CNN was facinating. The woman that types up all her journals at night. Saying that she felt like she have no control as to how she appears in front of people. That she couldn't communicate how she thinks. It's heartbreaking. Kids are amazing. I believe one day they will be able to find a treatment that will help these children live a normal life. Hugs and lots of love to you and your family
Michelle
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Thank you for this information Ali. This is something my husband and I have been looking in to reagrding our son because his pediatrician immediately dismissed our concerns, so we are doing the research on our own.
You are a great mama to be involved in something so huge that has such a significant connection to you and your family. Taking the time to educate yourselves and others is extreemly valuable. Thank you.
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Can't wait to share this journey with everyone this month. Thanks for doing this Ali!
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Ali - thanks for sharing this information with us. I always believed that things happen in life for a reason and I believe the "powers to be" knew you would share the word and your first hand experiences with others and make it a positive journey. BTW - someone had your pink sleeved tee on at a crop this weekend - it was way cool. She mentioned that many people had asked her about it throughout the weekend - I am sure she helped spread your word!!
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Ali ,
I love your site , but then whe I found out you were in the same "war" I was in , the war against Autism , I feel a kinship with ya girl!
My son is also the most Amazing kiddo in the whole world , Autism has brought our family so much sadness , frustration , profound loss , BUT it has also brought forth the best siblings a little boy could ask for , also understanding of a huge concept most people never really grasp , Loving someone unconditionally ....
With all the stress in my life , all the Therapy and vitamins and DIETS! I think about and do all day ... Coming to your site (and Heidi Swapp's), give me the rest from the world I need ... I haven't had the time to scrapbook since I have been in our "war" . but I lOVE Looking at all your layouts and fabulous ideas , you are gifted !! Thanks for being another voice for OUR kids .
Take Care , Marie
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you're awesome. the logo is amazing and that's so giving of you to donate your profits on it to the campaign. they are lucky to have you! and so is simon!
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thank you ali for the informing links...
thank you for educating us :)
thank you for your passion....
a beautiful photo of chris and simon :)
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I am so glad that you are sharing this story with us. I look forward to reading everything you have to say on the subject of autism. Your actions are an inspiration to so many peoplein both creative and supportive ways. Thank you!
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Awesome logo! Thanks for stretching our knowledge, Ali. Can't wait to see what you share this month. Also, GREAT PIC of Chris and Simon.
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I love you, Ali.
I just watched that video. Tears in my eyes. I'm getting a shirt.
You, Simon and Chris....will make a difference.
: )
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Thank you Ali. For opening my eyes, teaching me awareness, and for sharing. Love and smiles to your family!
-rani
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thanks you so much Ali for bringing this up, hopefully getting people more aware will make people look differently towards my son, so thank you!
love the picture by the way!
corinnexxx
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Thank you Ali!
Enough IS Enough!
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Ali,
I thought of you and Simon (and other friends) this weekend while watching the Final Four pre-game show. If you haven't seen or heard of J-Mac's story - you have to check it out. I've put two links below but there are many out there. This is one of the most incredible stories I've ever seen.
AMAZING. J-Mac, his family, his team, his coach, and his school. AMAZING.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/news/story?id=2352763
http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?channel=/elements/2006/03/02/eveningnews/videoarchive1364816_1_videosection_page.shtml
Valerie
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Thank you Ali!! Thank you for speaking from your heart and building awareness about Autism. I never thought it would be part of my life. But my daughter is wonderful gift to me and I would not change anything about her.
Love to you!
Jen
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Ali, I think it is wonderful what you are doing! That logo is brilliant! You are so amazing and that little boy of yours is such a cutie pie! Blessings to you and your family!
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WOW! I had NO idea the numbers were that high! I feel helpless & uninformed right now... But I will vow to learn more and understand... thanks for helping inform us all! Keep spreading the word!!!!
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You the parents are the ones that are going to make the difference. Early intervention is the key. I just sent the video link to all the teachers at my school. We have a pretty large autistic population there and as I mentioned to you this past weekend, the autistic kids are my favorites. They are so very cool. And I have no doubt that Simon is no different. Bless you and all the parents that are advocating for your kids! You do and will continue to make a big difference.
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