Like columnist Zack Colman, my younger brother also was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome. Colman’s column brought a tear to my eye because I know when my brother walks across that stage and receives his diploma it will be the happiest day of my life.
At nine years old, he is my hero and I am incredibly proud of him and everything he has accomplished through early childhood intervention. Autism is becoming a huge problem, and the only way we can do anything about it is by spreading awareness.
Every 20 minutes, a family is told that their child has autism. The odds your child will be diagnosed with autism have increased from around 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 150. That child could be yours someday.
I encourage Colman and others in or around Oakland County to participate in the 2009 Walk Now for Autism in October at the Palace of Auburn Hills. It is a wonderful platform for getting the word out and raising funds for research.
I also encourage those who deny that autism is a problem to spend a day in the lives of families affected by the disorder.
Every day is an emotional struggle, but my brother has enriched my life in ways I had never thought possible.
Sarah Tischler
psychology freshman
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