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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING THE WORK OF AUTISM SPEAKS DURING NATIONAL AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, Autism is a bio-neurological developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3, and impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function; and,
WHEREAS, Individuals with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities; and,
WHEREAS, Autism is diagnosed four times more often in boys than girls, and its prevalence is not affected by race, region, or socio-economic status. Since autism was first diagnosed in the U.S. the incidence has climbed to an alarming one in 68 children in the U.S.; and,
WHEREAS, Autism itself does not affect life expectancy, however research has shown that the mortality risk among individuals with autism is twice as high as the general population, in large part due to drowning and other accidents; and,
WHEREAS, Currently there is no cure for autism, though with early intervention and treatment, the diverse symptoms related to autism can be greatly improved and in some cases completely overcome; and,
WHEREAS, Autism Speaks, a national research and advocacy organization whose Chicago chapter resides in the 10th District, is dedicated to promoting solutions for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions; and,
WHEREAS, Building upon the legacy of three leading autism organizations, Autism Coalition for Research and Education (ACRE), the National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR) and Cure Autism Now (CAN), who merged with the organization, Autism Speaks has made extraordinary advancements in the autism community. Chief among these ...
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