Sunday April 2 marked the 16th annual World Autism Awareness Day—a day to
recognize people living with autism. This day of awareness for autism being
recognized under the theme: “Transformation: Toward a Neuro-Inclusive World
for All,” signals the need for the entire society to take action on behalf of, and
alongside those with autism.
According to World Health Organization (WHO), autism (also referred to as
autism spectrum disorder or ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects 1
in 100 young people. It can have a wide range of effects on a child’s development,
from challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal
communication. Characteristics may be detected in early childhood, but autism is
often not diagnosed until much later.
“I encourage us all to take this special day to commit to reaching out to those
around us who have differences, unique perspectives or life pathways, or who need
a helping, encouraging hand,” said Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, Sir Lester Bird
Medical Centre Pediatric Department’s Chair. “Those of us with our own
differences, can speak up to offer our unique voices to the conversation. If we can
expand our horizons in our own lives, we will do a better job of making room for
everyone, every day, including those with autism.”
She added; “We owe it to our fellow Antiguans and Barbudans to do everything
we can to address the disparities they face, and to support autistic people with tools
that facilitate clearer communication, increased productivity, and greater
independence.”
World Autism Awareness Day also serves to launch April as Autism Awareness
Month. Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre encourages all to join its awareness raising,
and support activities that will be taking place this month, and to help celebrate and
support the neurodiverse citizens among us.
During the month, teams from the SLBMC will be making radio and television
appearances to speak about autism, as part of the awareness campaign. The Rotary
Club of Antigua Sundown will also stage an autism walk during the month, as part
of the awareness campaign.