The reason for the A Brighter Side to ASD support group is to have a place for parents, siblings and caretakers to share our stories of everyday struggles whether it be physically, mentally or emotionally living life with children or adults affected by some form of Autism. I also want to highlight and share the many years of progress, daily accomplishments and success stories of the obstacles over
come by these amazing individuals from childhood to adulthood. A large amount of prayer, faith and patience I never knew I had, have gotten me and husband through many years; but I can't deny the feelings of not knowing what our son's future will hold. What has driven me to start this group as well as online support is the lack of support from outside resources that coincide with future needs of my adult son. For a long time, I knew a time would come where the adult disability services could not keep up with the onslaught effect of this disorder and eventually children and adult services would be at high demand, and also have to once again deal with those questions that can't be answered with a logical response. An estimated 1 in 68 children in the U.S., has an autism spectrum disorder according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which means 45,000 to 50,000 kids with autism turn 18 each year. This is looked at as an impending health care or community crisis. The public school system will provide services until age 22, after that the full responsibility to find accommodating special needs educational, employment opportunities and recreational activities are up to the parents. My goal is to eliminate this in the future and build a community of parents willing to support each other while advocating for our own services that support their strengths and set their course for the future. They are so special, but so misunderstood, I want to be a voice for them, for all of us. Thank you,
Kalishia Mitchell