Autism is hard in the U.S and developed countries, can you imagine in developing and third world countries. It is excruciatingly difficult. This is why United Nations created World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) on April 2nd which is just around the corner.
I was invited to speak there last year by Jacqueline, an autism mom originally from Argentina. Jacqueline and her husband were the pioneers behind the creation of WAAD. As a result of that event in 2013, I’ve met one extraordinary young American Woman who is Jewish descent – Melissa Diamond. And just like her last name, Melissa has been a diamond for autism parents in Jenin, West Bank, Palestine. Think about that for a minute.
A Jewish American woman helping Muslim Palestinian Autism Parents. And, they say there can’t be peace in the Middle East. Maybe if Secretary Kerry chatted with Diamond, she could help him.
Anyway, Melissa is now in Jenin where she blogs from and posts information on her Facebook page. She and her team are helping, educating and empowering Palestinian autism parents. They are teaching them behavior therapy, how to get resources and services for their children. Melissa started Global Voice For Autism which can do therapy through SKYPE for parents.
I am simply amazed and encouraged that this world which sometimes can be cold and cruel is still warm and welcoming because people like Melissa exist.
Melissa will be speaking at the U.N Autism event this year and was just invited by my good friend Jacqueline. I can’t wait to hear her inspiring ideas and creative ways to bridge the autism gap worldwide.
Autism – while it can affect some ethnic groups more or less and vary in severity, for the most part has no borders, color, race or ethnicity. It can hit you like a brick in your heart if you are not prepared for it. Unfortunately, while I think and often complain this country’s services – most of the world is light years behind.
In sum, let’s help all autism families and all autistic individuals irrespective of where they are from or live.
If you are an ABA (applied behavior analysis), SLP (Speech & Language Pathologist), OT (Occupational Therapist), Special education teacher, Psychologist or any therapist or educator in the field of autism and you want to volunteer at Global Voice For Autism, Please contact Melissa. You don’t have to travel around the world if you can’t. You can help through Skype. If you are a parent and you want to support those now getting the ASD diagnoses, please contact Melissa as well.
It is well worth the time and imagine how much good you will feel for helping another family in need.
Thanks!
Above words do not reflect any committee, agency or candidate
Idil – Somali Autism Mom & Minority Advocate