YESTERDAY was World Autism Awareness Day.
Unlike normal children who will become independent one day, children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) will require forms of lifelong support, and their parents will continue to toil for the rest of their lives.
Family members often face extremely challenging financial, mental and emotional stress in caring for a child with ASD.
I thank the people who have been friends to individuals with ASD and the families of these individuals, for their moral support and help.
Besides close relatives and personal friends, organisations and volunteers have also made a difference to the ASD community.
For example, when I planned an outing for a group of ASD families, Mr Alan Lim from Singapore Ducktours not only offered our group a charity rate, but he also worked with his management to roll out a year-round benefit for all people with special needs.
I thank Mr Lim and his management for their generous initiative.
ASD families are bolstered by the support from the larger community.
Everyone can play a part. It does not have to be a big gesture. For instance, when we are struggling with a child exhibiting difficult behaviour, don't give us cold stares and pass hurtful remarks.
Even a look of understanding would warm our hearts.
Sng Bee Lan (Mrs)
Unlike normal children who will become independent one day, children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) will require forms of lifelong support, and their parents will continue to toil for the rest of their lives.
Family members often face extremely challenging financial, mental and emotional stress in caring for a child with ASD.
I thank the people who have been friends to individuals with ASD and the families of these individuals, for their moral support and help.
Besides close relatives and personal friends, organisations and volunteers have also made a difference to the ASD community.
For example, when I planned an outing for a group of ASD families, Mr Alan Lim from Singapore Ducktours not only offered our group a charity rate, but he also worked with his management to roll out a year-round benefit for all people with special needs.
I thank Mr Lim and his management for their generous initiative.
ASD families are bolstered by the support from the larger community.
Everyone can play a part. It does not have to be a big gesture. For instance, when we are struggling with a child exhibiting difficult behaviour, don't give us cold stares and pass hurtful remarks.
Even a look of understanding would warm our hearts.
Sng Bee Lan (Mrs)
