Letter to the editor: People with autism deserve a world of connection, happiness

Count him in

Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting one in 68 children in the United States, is characterized by substantial difficulties in socialization and communication, repetitive behaviors and restricted interests that can interfere with daily functioning.

I am a mother of seven and a nurse practitioner with vast medical knowledge. When my child was diagnosed with autism, I did not know where to turn for help in finding treatments that would maximize my child’s potential to lead a meaningful, happy and independent life.

Through Autism Support Now, an agency operated by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Ella’s Hope, I discovered Applied Behavior Analysis. This therapy is recognized as a safe, beneficial and effective approach to autism, using evidence-based techniques to promote improvements in communication, play skills, social relationships, academic performance and necessary work and independent living skills.

Autistic people need and value social connections. We all do. I see how much it means to my son to be a part of a social, supportive and affirming community. We need to create more environments and opportunities for positive social and recreational experiences, behaviors related to autism notwithstanding.

It should not be a radical idea that one can make a friend without making eye contact or can have an engaging conversation while flapping one’s hands.

- Dawn McPheeters, Kansas City

Editor’s note: The author is not related to the McPheeters of Ella’s Hope.