Autism Speaks Walk

Posted on August 1, 2018 by Trudy Dujardin, FASID, Leed AP

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder, refers to a broad range of challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and and nonverbal communication. There are many subtypes of autism, and any person with autism can have unique strengths and challenges. Most are caused by a combination of genetic and environmental influences, and many are accompanied by medical issues such as intestinal issues, seizures, and sleep disturbances.

An estimated 1 in 59 children in the United States is on the autism spectrum.

For many years, I have been a supporter of Autism Speaks, and my husband, Frank, and I have participated in many Autism Speaks Walk events. This year, the Autism Speaks Walk on Nantucket is on August 18th. Taking compassionate action is what makes a real difference in the world. It’s compassionate action that has allowed Autism Speaks to make great strides forward in research and support for children and families affected by the disorder.

Last month, Autism Speaks launched a $1.5 million funding opportunity for treatment studies, with an emphasis on physical and mental health conditions that accompany autism.

I’m a fervent believer in the work of Autism Speaks, which is why I wholeheartedly support what they do. I’ll be walking this year with Frank and my two little Bichons, Tuffy and G.G. The Walk leaves from Sandbar Jetties Beach at 9:45 a.m., with opening remarks at 9:30 a.m. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

Start a team, join a team, or come on your own! For more information, contact Eden E. Carr at 617-726-1515.

Battling the Autism Epidemic

Posted on July 30, 2014 by Trudy Dujardin, FASID, Leed AP

I’ve written before about my concern for for the 70 million people affected by autism worldwide, and their families. Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders–autism spectrum disorders–caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors.

The numbers are rising, as confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control’s new statistics: 1 in 68 children, 1 in 42 boys have autism. It is an urgent public health priority that requires increasing global awareness, services and research. World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD), celebrated each year on April 2, was adopted by the United Nations in 2007 to shine a bright light on autism as a growing health crisis. Autism Speaks recognizes that day with its international Light It Up Blue campaign.

Thousands of communities participate, with iconic landmarks, businesses and homes across the globe uniting by shining bright blue lights in honor of the millions of individuals and families around the world living with autism.

I’m doing my small part by helping to spread the word through my blog and Facebook page, as well as providing financial support and participating in Walk Now for Autism Speaks. The Nantucket Walk will take place this year on August 16th, starting from Jetties Beach. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 100 cities across America. Please visit Autism Speaks here to find a walk in your area!

Autism Speaks is a worldwide organization co-founded by Suzanne and Bob Wright. They are tireless in approaching autism from every avenue, and transforming lives, one person at a time. A new documentary, Sounding the Alarm, has been produced. The film follows autism families as they follow tangled rules and regulations, and steadfastly fight to find and afford the right care and treatment for their loved ones throughout their lives.

Watch the trailer here. It’s available now on Netflix.

Nantucket Walk Now for Autism Speaks

Posted on August 14, 2012 by Trudy Dujardin, FASID, Leed AP

The people of Nantucket Island are known for their generosity and warmth of spirit, and never do they show it more clearly than each year when hundreds of people walk to fund vital research for autism. This year, Nantucket Walk Now for Autism Speaks takes place on Saturday, August 18th at 9:30 a.m.(registration at 8:30 a.m.), beginning at Jetties Beach. With a distance of only 1.5 miles, it’s something I hope we all can try to do.

Every 11 minutes, another family receives the devastating news that their child has an autism spectrum disorder. The Walk, founded by islanders Bob and Suzanne Wright, is one way to help change the future for all who struggle with the challenge of autism.

Come join me, Frank and our three Bichons, Ellie, Tuffy and G.G.! Learn more at www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/nantucket, or call 646-843-6675.