World of Jenks: Meet Chad

World Of Jenks | Ep. 2 | Can't Make Me Be: While living with Chad, a 20-year-old with autism, Jenks experiences not only the challenges of this condition, but discovers a smart, hilarious, and heroic young man.

This is a bit belated, since I've been really busy with grad school. I had meant to post it on April 2, 2013, which happened to be World Autism Awareness Day. But hey, the month of April happens to be Autism Awareness Month, so it's all good!

Have you ever watched World of Jenks? If not, no worries- you can view all of the episodes online at the link provided in the previous sentence. This particular episode introduced viewers to Chad, a 20-year-old young man with autism. In experiencing Chad's daily life, Jenks develops a greater appreciation for his struggles and the positive attitude with which he overcomes them.

It's definitely worth checking out. If you're interested in Chad, he happens to be a recurring member of season two.

Let's use April to promote a positive image for individuals with autism and to have open, intellectual discussions regarding autism.

Build-A-Bear Will be Lighting it Up Blue for Autism Awareness!

Image Courtesy of Autism Speaks (Facebook)

Build-A-Bear has teamed up with Autism Speaks to celebrate Autism Awareness with a one-of-a-kind furry friend! The bears will be available in participating Build-A-Bear workshops across the USA on March 27th. From what I've heard, each store will only be receiving a limited shipment of these bears, so once they're gone, they're gone.

I know that many of us have varying opinions of Autism Speaks. I understand that- I also have issues with the way they approach the topic of autism, as well as their approach (or lack thereof) to individuals with autism. However, this... this is just cute. Wifey really wants to get me one. I'm not complaining!

If you would like to get ahold of this special blue bear, give your local Build-A-Bear store a call and/or stop by any participating location on March 27th!

Positive Aspects of Asperger's: Megan

Aside from being another positive tale from the autism spectrum, this was just cute. Megan, a young girl diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, displays her memorization skills by reciting the various capitals of the world. Many individuals on the autism spectrum display above average abilities in specific skills. Having a "special interest" can often help an individual find their voice in a world that may not otherwise make much sense to them. It's finals week for a lot of my friends- I bet that memorization skill would sure come in handy for them!

An Inspirational Graduation Speech

Very well said! This young man has a bright future. More and more individuals with autism are proving that they can lead meaningful lives; we've come a long way from the view that the only viable future for individuals with autism was confinement within an institutional facility.

What Would You Do? Autism Edition.

Last Friday's episode featured a segment relating to autism. Happily, it seemed like everyone in the cafe stuck up for the family and for the child.

What would you have done? Would the child's behavior have bothered you? Would you have stuck up for him?

I can honestly say that I'd have stood up for him and for his family. They have every right to be there. I was definitely pleased with the support shown to this family.

Autism Awareness: Jacob Barnett

Jake was featured on 60 Minutes. He's a bright child whose skill in mathematics speaks for itself. Being on the spectrum has enabled him to think in different ways, which adds to his knowledge and abilities.

Sure wish I had a knack for math...! Oh well. It's my own fault for not having any interest in the subject whatsoever, ha ha.

April is Autism Awareness Month - 2012

Happy Autism Awareness month!

Recently, I've noticed that there seems to be a lot of negativity regarding autism. Sometimes, the negativity comes from those of us on the spectrum. Throughout the month of April, I'm going to make it a point to post some inspiring and/or optimistic articles, videos, etc. related to autism.

How will you support autism awareness during (and hopefully after) the month of April?