Every year on April 2nd, we mark World Autism Awareness Day, which took place this year as well. Every year, we recognize this to encourage awareness and acceptance of autistic children and adults.

Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that impacts how people communicate and interact with one another. Autistic individuals behave differently than other people, for example, they find loud noises, bright lights, stressful and uncomfortable situations overwhelming.

On December 18, 2007, the United Nations declared that April 2nd of each year would be World Autism Awareness Day, emphasising that children and adults all over the world are not alone and spreading the message that the world is with them on their journey.

In 1999, the Autism Society created a puzzle piece ribbon, which was later adopted as a symbol of awareness. The puzzle piece ribbon symbolises the complexity of the autism spectrum and the uniqueness of individuals with autism and their families.

People have become more educated about autism and how we may assist increase awareness over the years. 'Walk for Autism' is one such charity. This charity is a virtual fundraising initiative in which participants sign up to take 10,000 steps every day for a week leading up to World Autism Awareness Day. Furthermore, the charity allows you to create your own fundraising page, allowing you to generate funds and support individuals in need. We should follow their example and continue to promote awareness and encourage one another year after year.

And remember

“AUTISM IS NOT A DISABLITY, IT’S A DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE ABILITY”- Stuart Duncan