As many of you know, my son Clifford, has autism. Many of you have
questions, but I'd rather not discuss personal issues in class. Instead,
I've included some links here that may help you, especially if you know or
care about someone affected by the disorder. Pass them on!
(If you like books as much as I do, check out my book blog--there's a
paragraph about my favourite autism-related books.)
AUTISM SPEAKS is an foundation doing great work to promote awareness and fund
research into the causes of and best treatments for Autism. Click here and
you can watch a clip from the powerful documentary, "Autism Every Day."
http://www.autismspeaks.org
As some of you know, some Ryerson journalism students recently made a film
about my family and a Hamilton family with twin girls who have autism. The
film is called "Benchmarked." Here's the trailer.
You can also visit the website: www.benchmarkedfilm.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vPYLZ8rGrA
If you'd like to learn more about autism in Canada, check out this link. In
the early days after Cliff's diagnosis, this was my lifeline!
http://groups.msn.com/BBBAutismSupportNetwork/welcome.msnw
If you'd like to take courses to learn about autism, or access an amazing
library, then check out the Geneva Centre for Autism!
http://www.autism.net
Lots of information here, in the form of videos that you can watch from home
on your computer.
http://www.autismspeaks.org/video/index.php
Need some inspiration? Watch this heart-warming video and see just one
example of why I find so much inspiration from working with and advocating
for the disabled.
http://www.stservicemovie.com/
Where autism meets politics...
http://www.ontarioautismcoalition.com
Part of my "15 minutes of fame."
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/bestoftv/2008/05/30/beck.voted.out.of.class.cnn
A great organization providing information and support to parents and
families in Ontario.
http://www.autismontario.com/
My latest role model is a 13-year old non-verbal girl with autism. Her name
is Carly, and she's incredible. Be sure to read some of Carly's writing.
It will amaze you. You can follow her on Twitter, too.
http://carlysvoice.com/
Another link to the "Benchmarked" documentary trailer, featuring my son
Clifford.
http://www.butchershop.tv/screenroom/client/bm_2009_trailer.mov
Other Resources