Misconceptions About Aspberger's Syndrome & The Autism Spectrum

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
Ward A, Edmonton Public School Trustee Candidate
Jasper Place Public Library Terminal #IV
Edmonton, Alberta

September IIIrd, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

In the health column by Dr. Paul Donohue in the Edmonton Journal the other day, a reader writes to the good Dr. in context II Aspberger's Syndrome. The Dr. responds back that kids and adults who have this disorder do not have that great of an ability to socialize & have overall feelings IV anyI but themselves. I strongly resent this implication, I happen to know many people with Aspberger's Syndrome through my support of the Autism Society of Alberta In Edmonton & the Children's Autism Society.

To cover IV their lack of socialization skills, which I admit the Dr. was right on, kids with Aspberger's can be more dependent & latch onto a greater system of family supports. They love their family members. I know young adult students (with Aspberger's) who have animals who they are extremely attached to. Just like unaffected kids & adults, they latch onto the animals and bond with them. A sort of pet therapy if you will, they do not love these animals any less then a person without Aspberger's. I know of people with Aspberger's who have successfully had children through marriage &/or adoption. Once they know they have II be responsible IV a being thats even more dependent then they are, they become more socially aware & turn inII fine parents.

Its About Understanding & Not Degradation Of The Autistic Mind,

Rory

Source: The Detroit News, The St. Louis Dispatch & The Edmonton Journal, Dr. Paul Donohue.