Autism Aspergers When the Dust settles what will be left?

Last night (Monday, December 28, 2009 ) I attended the www.blogtalkRadio.com ASAN President Ari Ne'eman Answers Your Questions Preventing Harmful Restraint & Seclusion Act put on by the Autism Women's Network. Ari has Recently been appointed by President Obama to the National Council on disabilities. I was intrigued because Ari has had a position of divisiveness within the Autism Aspergers community. He has give the impression in the past that Autism / Aspergers was a difference not a disability. I wanted some answers.

The vitriolic anger permeated the chat room. I felt attacked from my very first question. I was called out as a Dr. Mercola fanatic. Which I am in no way am. Although, I think Dr. Mercola brings up many viable points in ways that many people can relate to and has some ideas on biomedical treatment that should be researched & Supported. One individual asked me my name. Which I never shy about giving. I am Tim Welsh Autism Advocate proud father of Tanner 12 who is dealing with our help ( and many others ) through Biomedical & discrete trial training his Autism. He is non verbal and has many issues.

I started the #UWAC initiative on October 2nd in the middle of the governments embargo to hold back information from the public about the new Autism Rates 1 in 91. #UWAC is a twitter hashtag which helps with searches standing for Unity within Autism Community. I feel, along with many others that Unity in large numbers is our best vehicle to have political clout and create real change.

I found Ari to be well spoken, focused, yet empathetic to the concerns of all in the chat room. although, at first my questions were rebuffed. He did offer to stay after to answer them. He did however take on the big question for many. How can you be appointed the National Council for Disabilities if you do not believe Autism / Aspergers is one and much more than just a difference? Also how could you be advocating for a new law that specifically addresses Restraint & Seclusion issues for the disabled in educational settings if your initial premise puts your group outside this range. Adults with differences.

I have read and heard some of Ari's points before. We agree on many. We both feel everyone on the spectrum should be treated with respect, deserve services, housing, employment, and real human rights. I think that he would also help advocate for individuals like Tanner to get answers as to why he can not communicate and relate to the world. Not that we would be changing Tanner's personality at all. I would just like him to work towards independence. Basically, use the toilet, feed himself, communicate needs, and cross the road.

I just wanted to respond this morning. After a sleepless night, thinking how angry and defensive the chat room was. They do not know me, our story, or the fact that many place me on the edge of the spectrum. I understand the anger from many many points of view. I understand the need to involve those dealing with #Autism in every facet of the work that needs to be done. I admit that world has been ignorant for almost 70 years and has been abusive on many fronts. I am frustrated at times with the actions & propaganda from Autism Speaks. In the recent past I have come to the conclusion that we need them. I also know that in this economy they need us. Division among us will not move us forward.

I think it is sad when such a big step was taking place towards unity within the Autism Community and such important legislation needing our action, that many still are so angry that they could not see what was happening. Ari should not have to be in a position, where he is having to defend himself at this point in time. The basic human rights issues of humanity, health, and freedom need to be addressed now. Thank you Ari for stepping up to the plate. Big hugs for all, but please step back take a deep breath, and say a prayer ( or just take a moment to think! ). We need each other to succeed. Those without voices are relying on us.

http://www.causecast.org/member/tanners-dad

What can you do today...

If you are a parent... Love your child unconditionally. Do not let your child feel they are any less because they cannot communicate the way we do or look after themselves. Do not forget to look after yourself and your significant other. ( If you don't have one find one...There is someone out there for everyone. You deserved to be loved also). Join a church. Speak to your friends. Keep up the good fight.

If you are Friend... If you have resources please consider supporting AutismOne as they move the agenda towards services and support programs. If you do not have financial resources provide respite services... Babysit, go with a parent to the grocery store, or running errands. Be there to listen.

If you are in the medical community it is time to wake up and do something...
If you are in the insurance industry it is time to make the people responsible pay...
if you are in the media it time to tell the truth...
If you are in the government it is time act...
If you are in education it is time to educate...
If you are in a religious community it is time to rally the troops to support families...
If you are involved in a Autism group please invite them to join the Move to Heal Autism By 2030 (MTHA)

If you are in contact with amanda peet and have a child with Autism invite her over to experience our lives first hand and but out of our childrens and the future of others children.

If you are impacted by autism (that means you are part of the human race) Join me in the fight. Join causecast with your own cause or mine. Make a difference in our world. now. State your change! Then make it happen.

If you happen to have some sleeping pills, sleep ideas for children with autism, or want to come spend the night let me know.... I need a nap.

Say a prayer for all those dealing or not dealing with their "Autism Like" conditions.

On Twitter #FeelAutismYet #FAY #TruthFirst #Autismabc #APE #Autism #BFH #Tahml #HDTJ #HC09 #PMB @TannersDad #UWAC

If you are in the pharmaceutical industry it is time to pray...

If you or a family member in the Military are impacted by Autism help me promote a meeting between Angela Warner from www.AutismSalutes.com and Michelle Obama http://tinyurl.com/m9r8ws

People it is just time to deal with Autism....

How much longer…

http://www.causecast.org/member/tanners-dad