Autism Sunday, observed on the second Sunday in February and taking place on February 11th, is also known as the International Day of Prayer for Autism Spectrum Disorders. It raises awareness of autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how people interact socially, and with their surroundings.
Facts about autism spectrum disorder (A.S.D.)
1/ It is more common than you think - A.S.D. affects one in 68 children, it is more common than childhood cancer, AIDS, and diabetes.
2/ There is no cure - There is no medical cure for A.S.D. yet.
3/ It means "alone". The term stems from the Greek word "autos", meaning "self", and literally means "alone".
4/ It is not a final sentence. With support, children with A.S.D. can learn and succeed in the classroom and beyond.
5/ Symptoms appear at an early age. A.S.D. can be reliably diagnosed by age two and even earlier.
Autism Sunday raises awareness about A.S.D. and encourages people to understand and sympathize with the cause. It also provides encouragement and support to those affected by A.S.D.
Say a prayer for those affected with autism spectrum disorders, including their parents or caregivers.
Mgr. Ivana Mihálová, ELT
