The CDC released new stats for austism just last week. Austism now affects 1 in 88 children and is five times more common in boys than girls. That is a 78 percent increase since 2002.
Is anyone in your life touched by autism? I have several friends with children on the spectrum and, while not having or seeking a diagnosis, I suspect one of my children could ever so slightly be one of them as well. There are so many varying degrees of autism. You can not tell an autistic child by looks alone. Some are high functioning and some require a lot of help.
I regret not getting this post written earlier, but it's not too late. Today is "Light It Up Blue" Day. Wear blue today if you can. If you can, turn on a blue light tonight. Light It Up Blue is in it's third year of showing support for Autism Awareness. So many people are unaware, let's work to spread awareness this year so it can be even bigger next year.
Most importantly this month, take some time to educate yourself about Autism. Be compassionate. These kids (and parents) deserve it. Autism Speaks is a great place to learn more about something that affects so many.