Autism Awareness Month

WHEREAS, Autism is a lifelong neurological disorder with current statistics bringing it to one in one hundred ten children being diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder; and

WHEREAS, Autism affects each individual in different ways, and can range from very mild to severe, knows no racial, ethnic or social boundaries and affects young and old alike in the State of Alabama; and

WHEREAS, our understanding of Autism has grown tremendously since it was first diagnosed, though there is no known cure; and

WHEREAS, accurate, early diagnosis and the resulting appropriate education and intervention are vital to the future growth and development of the individual; and

WHEREAS, hope lies in a broad spectrum of treatments, and an informed public and community committed to providing support and service to individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders; and

WHEREAS, the Autism Society of Alabama remains committed to their mission and to educating families, professionals and the general public to better understand this lifelong disorder:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2015, as

Autism Awareness Month

in the state of Alabama.