Article~ Aspergers offers unique challenges for parents

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Aspergers offers unique challenges for parents

Information night to raise awareness on syndrome

BY BRENDAN HAIR May 6, 2008 11:16 AM

After clearing her own hurdles raising a daughter recently diagnosed with a form of autism, a local woman is hoping to help other families and educators access information on the syndrome with an awareness night at an area high school. "There's a lot of agencies out there that can help but it's a lot of work for the average parent, who may still be in shock from getting the diagnosis," said Dianne, who's requested that her last name be withheld.

Her daughter Lyndsey was diagnosed a year ago with a form of autism known as Aspergers syndrome at the age of 16.

"We had challenges with our daughter her whole life, and getting the diagnosis - it was just a relief knowing what it was," said Dianne.

Lyndsey will be among a variety of speakers at the upcoming Asperger's Information Night organized by her mother at grove Collegiate on Thursday, May 15. Designed to help raise awareness for parents and teachers, the evening will give attendees a chance to better comprehend Aspergers and offer support to those who need it. It will also allow students like Lyndsey to share their experiences dealing with Aspergers and challenges that come with the diagnosis.

According to Dianne, Aspergers syndrome has only become commonly recognized in the last 15 years. People with Aspergers are often sensitive to touch, show distinct mannerisms, signs of depression as well as hyperactive behaviour. The syndrome also affects one's ability to communicate through written, verbal, and physical means.

For Lyndsey's parents, the challenges began when she was a small child.

"Autism and Aspergers are almost like when you go to the paint store. They'll have a spectrum of colours and severe autism would be dark blue and Aspergers would be light blue," said Rick, Lyndsey's father.

Dianne says that someone with Aspergers can have an average to high IQ level, but the challenge lies in applying their skills and intelligence "into a world that is rigid."

"They're not unintelligent people, they just see the world differently," she said.

For Lyndsey, a diagnosis brought relief. She knew her peers would better understand her distinct nature, though she admits she's been able to conceal signs of the syndrome.

"I've become really good at acting like I'm completely normal," said Lyndsey.

Dianne says there is growing support for Aspergers syndrome but there's still a tremendous learning curve for parents who find themselves coping with the diagnosis of their children in a society lacking basic support mechanisms.

She hopes the information night may save parents and educators a lot of legwork by attempting to show people how to efficiently raise kids with Aspergers.

"Everyone is coming here voluntarily and they are eager to share their knowledge, because society has to (learn to) absorb these people" said Dianne of the night's presenters, who include psychologist, Dr. Weiss, the Geneva Centre for Autism, and the Aspergers Society of Ontario. "It will give the audience insight into what Aspergers actually is and the challenges (these people) deal with."

http://www.insidetoronto.ca/News/Etobicoke/article/47366