Skip to main content

Why World Autism Day Matters to Me

Apr 03, 2024 08:37AM ● By Debra Wallace Forman

As we celebrate World Autism Day on April 2, it is time to celebrate Adam, my 18-year-old son with autism, who navigates the world with a kind and tender heart. He has opened my eyes to the importance of accepting, including, and appreciating each of our children’s unique gifts and talents, instead of focusing on their quirks and shortcomings.

Currently, 1 in 36 children has been diagnosed with autism, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which means that most of us know or love a child, teen, or adult with autism.

As a well-meaning ‘Mama Lion’ who will always protect, defend, and help her cub, I am struggling to find a way to foster his independence. This is a precarious dance that we do every single day. As a devoted advocate for my son, I have always refused to believe the naysayers who have been quick to tell me what Adam cannot do and will never be able to do. They want me to decrease my expectations for him so neither of us is disappointed. I have always refused.

So, let’s spend today celebrating the loving, caring, and empathetic young man I have the privilege of calling my son, and for goodness’ sake, stop putting Adam and his peers in the boxes that society has carved out for them.  Never ever stop embracing their dreams, goals, and desires.

I believe with all my heart that every parent and child can step over those stumbling blocks and soar to new heights if love, tenacity, and desire are there.

Debra Wallace Forman is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings.

In-Print, Inspiration, Wise Words, Healthy Kids News Briefs Kudos April 2024

 

 

Upcoming Events Near You
The Tick Tackler Tutor: Three Impactful Tick Remediation Strategies for the Homeowner

By Jennifer Meisenbacher

Did you know most tick bites occur in and around the home—and that ticks spend more than 95% of their life off a host?

With more than 19 years of field experience, Tick Tackler offers a practical, easy-to-follow approach that empowers homeowners to significantly reduce tick activity on their properties. From gardening and yard work to children’s play areas, this guide outlines essential adjustments to help protect your outdoor spaces from ticks.

The Tick Tackler Tutor introduces three impactful strategies designed to identify high-risk areas and minimize exposure. These methods are versatile and adaptable—whether you’re a homeowner, pet owner, beekeeper, or managing a larger property such as a doggy daycare or horse farm.

Inside, readers will discover how education leads to confidence, how small changes can yield visible results, and how breaking tick control into manageable steps restores a sense of control. The book simplifies complex concepts into three core strategies, guiding readers in creating a personalized plan to reduce tick activity effectively.

For those eager to reclaim their yards but unsure where to begin, this guide delivers clear, actionable solutions. Transform your outdoor environment into a safer, more enjoyable space for family, pets, and everyday living.

Available now on Amazon.

Follow Us On Facebook