Autism has been gaining media attention for quite some time. For example, Jenny McCarthy has been an advocate, along with Jim Carrey, for her son, a sufferer of autism. Autism is four times more likely to effect boys than girls. Autism sufferers tend to have difficulties with social interactions, verbal and non-verbal communications, and have various learning disabilities.
The relatively mysterious neurological/developmental disorder which leads to alterations in brain chemistry are somewhat unknown; although it is likely that many factors; including genetic and environmental cues likely play major roles. One popular, yet controversial theory, is that thimersol, a mercury-based preservative used in many vaccines, might play havok on children, albeit, recently scientific papers have begun to debunk this to some degree.
More research needs to be done for my own personal benefit to truly believe this is debunked, but fortunately as research goes, autism is a popular, exciting, and important subject of study. Research ranges from understanding the molecular and genetic causes to the development of possible treatments. Additionally new teaching techniques are being developed that improve the autism sufferer's coping, social, and developmental functional skills.
The Night of Too Many Stars, is one way that people have been raising money and awareness for Autism. Lex and Terry, a morning radio talk show, has also been raising money for Autism Society of America, for nearly a decade, holding yearly Motorcycle rides in Jacksonville, Florida.
Read up what you can, give what you can, and show all the understanding and love that you can.
Thank You
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