Light posting, as most of today is spent in the Autism Speaks Leadership Summit that I came all the way from sunny South Dakota to Sunny & humid DC to attend.
The plus is that part of it is to intentionally go to our Representative’s and Senator’s offices. Congresswoman Noem’s staff was great to meet with our group while she was on her way back to DC. and we get to meet with her, Rounds and Thune as a group at their Wednesday Breakfast tomorrow morning, before we visit the Senate offices individually.
It’s been a great couple of days so far, and I’m especially looking forward to the political advocacy/election advocacy portion coming up shortly.
We’re currently listening to Rep. Marsha Blackburn, and have been treated to several sitting US Senators and Representatives addressing the group, as well as members of the media, administration, scientific and advocacy communities.
Ultimately, the goal is to put the knowledge into practice back in our own states, as well as seek further advocacy at the federal level.
Back to the lectures!
Pat
Thanks for taking the time to be an advocate . Autism has impacted many of us and I for one don’t tell you thanks often enough .
Thanks. There are people who do far more than I, I just write about it from time to time, and do what I can.
Lisa Stanley who lobbied for us (and is sitting 2 seats over from me) and my bride sitting next to me are two who I can name off the top of my head.
I’m appreciative for your work on Autism and its sister affliction Aspergers.
Comparable in some degrees to Alzheimers for old people, these afflictions impact our ability to live and love in this world. At our core, we are made for relationship and these three “A’s” diminish the capacity to enter into relationship.
I was once sitting with a friend whose child has Downs who said to me Downs is a blessing compared to Autism. I asked why and he said, “my son has the “love gene” in abundance.”
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying one is worse or better than the other. My point is only to stress Autism hides/diminishes the “love gene” and the child’s ability to both give/show and experience love. Again, thanks to all who help this very worthy cause.
I am thrilled to see this. Thank you for the article. Once an autism mom…always an autism mom.