It wasn’t that long ago that ‘autism’ was a foreign word to most people.
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As time has passed, and those with autism or those caring for people with the condition have spoken up, the condition has become less of a mystery.
We know it can manifest in different ways, take many different forms and affect adults and children.
And we know that those with it can still be functioning and contributing members of society.
The Wagga Autism Support Group does a remarkable job raising funds and awareness for local families with someone who has the condition.
The Superhero Walk for Autism was held at the weekend and it was proof that heroes walk among us every day.
These little kids, dressed as their favourite hero, were just as much to be admired as those they were dressed as.
They were the reason about 100 people gathered to support this cause.
They might not be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound or shoot web from their fingertips, but they are bringing people together and the walk sends the message that they matter to all of us.
They are the reason that parents spend countless hours and money finding resources to help make their lives a little easier.
And contact with them makes you realise how important it is that we keep raising awareness.
Organisers said support continues to grow and this is due to a better understanding of autism and the needs of those who have it.
Hearing the personal stories of those who care for someone with autism, or conditions similar to it, is what spreads an understanding through the community.
Parents and carers who are brave enough to speak up are who make the difference.
Parents brave enough to walk in something such as Sunday’s event are who make the difference.
Because at the end of the day, it isn’t always about how much money is raised.
If awareness can be spread to just one more person, events such as the superhero walk are a success.
People in the community are becoming more aware, support programs are increasing and schools are becoming more accommodating.
If we can spread this kind of tolerance and awareness for other conditions, imagine how inclusive our society will become for children and adults of all abilities.