Autism is one of the most devastating heartbreaks that I think a parent can know. I can’t even imagine how awful it must be to have to watch your child suffer with the difficulties of this disorder.

Listen to some of these statistics. If this doesn’t strike home the realities of this disability, then I just don’t know what would…

• One child in 150 is diagnosed with autism
• There is a new autism case diagnosed every 20 minutes
• Autism  is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the US today
• More children will be diagnosed with autism currently than with AIDS, Diabetes and Cancer combined
• Symptoms of autism include impaired social interaction, problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and unusual, repetitive, or limited activities and interests
• Males are four times more likely to have autism than females

There is some support out there, though.  The Autism Support Network recently launched a free online support community. This online service is growing fast with thousands of members already registered. These members are now connected with other families and individuals touched by autism and are receiving valuable support and insight, guidance for treatments, helpful strategies, and information about various therapies that may be beneficial.