Locked. But have no fear, just add.

Warning: Many posts will include Harry Potter, Grey's Anatomy, ramblings, randomness, etc. If you'd like to friend me comment, and I'll most likely add you. =) ( Please don't be offended if I don't.  =/ It's seriously me not you. ) We have to share some interests. Telling me how you found my LJ would be nice too.

I feel like I should tell this to everyone, to help raise awareness. You don't have to read if you don't want to, but I really encourage you to do so.

I was watching Oprah not too long ago, and it was about Autism. You know one of those episodes on Oprah that really touch your heart? Well this episode did it for me. I don't know too much about Autism, but I know a little bit from relatives and friends. Anyway, Autism is a disorder that affects a person's development of communication and social skills. People don't know the cause of it, but it's been said that it could from genetics or environmental factors.

"Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors, such as obsessively arranging objects or following very specific routines. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe. "

It's really sad to see a child with Autism, including the family who has to deal with all the problems and frustration. In Oprah, people discussed their relationship with their kids who have Autism and even one kid talked about what it's like having a sibling with Autism. But what's wonderful, is the love these families have for their kids, no matter what their situation is. They have endless determination, patience, and hope.

I know someone who may have Autism, and that person is the most lovable, optimistic person you'll ever meet. It's just so sad and I feel guilty sometimes, or ungrateful whenever I complain about things that seemed like a big deal to me, but are really trivial.

Most people don't know or understand Autism. On Oprah, parents were saying how strangers look and judge at their kids behavior. They think it's strange, or that the parents don't know how to control their child when they throw tantrums that isn't normal for their age. I think one parent said instead of people just scorning at their kids and their parents, they should offer to help or don't judge or scorn at them at all.

People need to know about Autism, because it's spreading and getting to be a big issue for families. 1 in 150 kids in the U.S. have Autism. So the point of this post was to let you guys know about Autism, or at least be aware. I'm still learning, still finding out things and I want to help. You guys can help by just knowing about it; being aware or donating to families and research. If you want to know more about Autism go to autismspeaks.com, they have good information and resources.

If you read all this, thank you so much. *hugs* *glomps* *gives 2 double chocolate chip cookies to you*.