Autism Awareness - Ben & Finlay

We've run several stories previously on Ben and Finlay, the autistic twins Mogwai have supported with items for auction in the last couple of years.

World Autism Day was on 2nd April, and Autism Awareness continues throughout April.

An update from Mike Stevens:

Ben and Finlay invite you all to join them in celebrating World Autism Day on 02 April 2012 and Light It Up Blue to help to shine a light on autism! Whether it be big or small, the whole world is going blue to increase awareness!

Light It Up Blue, in its third year, is a unique global initiative to help raise awareness about the growing public health concern that is autism. Iconic landmarks around the world will Light It Up Blue to show their support.

Join us now and help shine a light on autism.

Why should we care?

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them. Currently, one in 100 people are affected by this condition. The needs of those with an autistic spectrum condition still remain largely misunderstood. Many suppose that an approach that works well with one group of individuals with additional support needs will work well for all.

Who are we targeting?

Autism affects both children and adults alike. Raising awareness of autism will make it easier for families affected by this condition. The difficulties that many people with autism experience within services are often due to a lack of a clear and consistent understanding of their needs and wants over multiple environments.

We have already told you about our good friends, Patty and Bill Peek from St Ignace in Michigan, who have bought a blue bulb in Ben and Finlay’s honour to form part of the lighting up of the Mackinac Bridge. This is the third longest suspension bridge in the world and joins the upper and lower peninsulas of the state of Michigan. The bridge will be lit for the whole month of April.

Across the globe in New Zealand, we are delighted that Kyla and Callum Brown, twins to good friend Terry, have taken Ben and Finlay’s story to an autism fundraising event at Otatara School down under. They have made up a story board about the boys with text and pictures taken from their blog and shared it with their classmates. Thanks so much guys for thinking of us all those miles away!

The future?

Our aim is to look to a future where the unique differences of individuals with Autism Spectrum Condition are recognised and respected and there is meaningful participation and choice in all aspects of life for them, their families and their carers.

PLEASE spread the word…….support us all to a brighter and better future!

http://benandfinlay.blogspot.com