Like so many growing number of families, our family has been impacted by autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability; signs typically appear during early childhood and affect a person’s ability to communicate, and interact with others. ASD is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a “spectrum condition” that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause of autism, but increased awareness and early diagnosis/intervention and access to appropriate services/supports lead to significantly improved outcomes. 

We are fortunate that our nephew is high-functioning, however, the diagnosis still affects every member of the family in different ways. Parents must now place their primary focus on helping their child with ASD, which may put stress on their marriage, other children, work, finances, and personal relationships and responsibilities. Parents now have to shift much of their resources of time and money towards providing treatment and interventions for their child, to the exclusion of other priorities. The needs of a child with ASD can complicate family relationships, especially with siblings.

In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDM autism prevalence report. The report concluded that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 68 births in the United States – nearly twice as great as the 2004 rate of 1 in 125 – and almost 1 in 54 boys. The spotlight shining on autism as a result has opened opportunities for the nation to consider how to serve families facing a lifetime of supports for their children. In June 2014, researchers estimated the lifetime cost of caring for a child with autism is as great as $2.4 million. The Autism Society estimates that the United States is facing almost $90 billion annually in costs for autism. (This figure includes research, insurance costs and non-covered expenses, Medicaid waivers for autism, educational spending, housing, transportation, employment, related therapeutic services and caregiver costs.)

It is important to us that we are raise money to help OAR promote solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. They are dedicated to increasing understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder; being the catalyst for research breakthroughs, increasing early-childhood screening and timely interventions, improving the transition to adulthood and ensuring access to reliable information and services throughout the lifespan.

There is no cure for ASD.  Therapies and behavioral interventions are designed to remedy specific symptoms and can bring about substantial improvement. We are asking for your support to help enable OAR to enhance lives today and accelerate a spectrum of solutions for tomorrow. We ask that you donate to this cause that is very near and dear to us.