The Autism Society Philippines-Dumaguete chapter joined the entire nation in celebrating the 17th National Autism Consciousness Week 2013 with various activities held throughout the city.
This year’s theme is Autismo Alamin: Pagtanggap at Pag-Unawa Palaganapin; clearly echoing the goal to have society learn more about autism in order to gain widespread acceptance and understanding for individuals with ASD.
The celebration formally started with a Holy Mass at the cathedral last Saturday, Jan. 20; followed by an “Angel’s Walk” from Quezon Park to Robinsons Place; and capped off by a meaningful gathering at the Robinsons Atrium for the launch of “Colors of ‘A’ Spectrum” photo exhibit. The week-long celebration ends on January 26 with a Family Fun Day at the Robinsons Place Atrium.
The ASP-Dumaguete Chapter has as its president, Dr. Leah Tayko Verdillo, who is a parent to a child with autism. Members of the Autism Society, together with several parent advocates, concerned citizens, educators, medical and allied professionals will be participating in various events to help generate awareness, acceptance and understanding for individuals with Autism. In so doing, they hope to gain equal rights, access to appropriate education, service and facilities enjoyed by non-disabled people.
According to the American Pediatric Society, Autism is not a specific disease, but rather a collection of disorders of brain development called “autism spectrum disorders,” or ASDs.
According to an October 2007 report from the American Academy of Pediatrics, some early (before 18 months) and more-subtle signs of autism to look for include: Child doesn’t turn when you say his or her name; Child doesn’t turn to look when you point and say, “Look at…” or doesn’t point to show you an interesting object or event; Lack of back-and-forth baby babbling; Delay in smiling; Failure to make eye contact with people; Attachment to hard objects such as ballpoint pens, a flashlight, keys, or action figures – as opposed to soft objects like blankets and stuffed animals
Other early signs of autism that warrant evaluation by your pediatrician include: No babbling or pointing or other gesture by 12 months; No single words by 16 months; No two-word spontaneous phrases by 24 months; Loss of language or social skills at any age
If you’re worried about or suspect any of these symptoms; or your child has exhibited some early signs of autism, consult your pediatrician. It is important that you find a doctor who will listen and refer your child to appropriate specialists for diagnosis.
These specialists may either be a developmental pediatrician, neurologist, psychiatrist or psychologist.
Unfortunately, some doctors unfamiliar with diagnosing autism sometimes dismiss parent concerns, delaying diagnosis and the opportunity for early intervention therapies.
You may also get in touch with support groups such as the Autism Society Philippines, which can provide you with valuable information regarding your concerns.
The sooner you take your child for an evaluation by a medical professional or specialist, the sooner you get a qualified diagnosis. Early diagnosis can mean an immediate referral for intervention. The key to positive, long-term outcomes for children with autism is early diagnosis and appropriate intervention. (Melanie Laurena-Macias)
