Senate Bill 819 - Autism Treatment Acceleration Act of 2009 (ATAA)

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A group of US Representatives and Senates have introduced a bill to help people with autism. Here is a link to Autism Society of America site where you can read more about the bill as well as send a message to your Representative and Senators.

The Autism Society of America also allows you add your own message to include with your message. I added the following:

As I am sure you know there has been an increase in the case of diagnosed autism and early intervention is critical in improving every autistic child's life.

This last year my son, Joshua, was diagnosed with autism and the impact on my family has been difficult at times. However, the early invention services provided has been an enormous support. Joshua is now able to call my wife and I "mama" and "daddy" which as you know is the happiest words to hear from your child.

I recognize the strains on the current and future federal budgets, and understand the difficult choices you have to make. I also voted for you based on your service to the community, the sacrifice you make in representing us, and your ability to recognize the importance providing the best future for our children. During your deliberations I ask you to think about the improvement that special education services has for autistic and special needs children and defend the budget with your colleagues.

Thank you for you time, and if can be of any service to you please let me know.

I hope that each of you will take the time to be involved in our government and future for all of our children.

I have arrived!

For those of you who do not know, I am engineer, ;), so I have trouble with what most people call "English." One of my deciding criteria in studying engineering was so that I would not have to "write." Well, that has not worked out so well. After submitting three featured papers and my portfolio I have been accepted as co-editor of Megan's awesome blog.

I feel lucky to have such an amazing wife and two wonderful children, whom have been previously described. We are also blessed to have great teachers for Josh, as well as school administrators and coordinators.

I thought I would share a quick story. As we were getting a second opinion about Josh's autism diagnosis the doctor we asked what the future would hold for Josh. Paraphrasing what the doctor said "Do you know any engineers? He will be like that." Engineers are obviously not known for their social behavior, emotional displays, or what some people refer to as "feelings" which is also some of the generalization of autistic children. Needless to say Josh and I have a lot in common, which I like and look forward to future joint projects. I only hope if he becomes an engineer he introduces himself as an engineer.