Autism Speaks has Spoken

I was hesitant to write this blog but this is something that I wanted to share with all of you. As you may be aware I was just in Egypt teaching the Exercise Connection Program to the ETC & Advance Center of Cairo and I presented for the Arab Network for Autism.
While I was there I spoke with many people and founders of autism organizations and centers from the Arab Countries.
I talked specifically with two organizations and they asked me, "Do you work with Autism Speaks?" I quickly but respectfully said, "no." I was hesitant to continue this discussion because I didn't want to offend any one or their organization. I responded, "The organizations that I support and that support me are Autism One and the Autism Society of Illinois. They are truly dedicated to helping the children and families."
I was still hesitant to keep going but during the two discussions I asked, "How do you know about Autism Speaks." They each responded with "we met with their founders." They each followed it up with ... they were not impressed, and the founders were disrespectful and arrogant.
I was somewhat surprised and at the same time not.
They then asked me what I thought...
I will keep this brief but I explained where their money was going and that it was seemed more large marketing company. I then said, it can be very tough for new parents of children with autism because this is what they have heard of, Autism Speaks, and the parents donate funds, support the walks but never get anything in return, etc, etc.
I then asked them, "Have you heard about Autism One?" Some yes, but didn't know much. I can assure all of you, they now know about Autism One and not only the dedication of Ed and Teri but everyone involved with the organization to help the children.

So why was I hesitant to write this blog?

Well, I never want to burn any bridges and I don't want to come off as arrogant to an outside who may be reading this. Let me explain more.....
When I first began working with children with autism I had no idea what autism was or the difference between Autism Speaks, Autism One or any autism organization. I must have been naive to think that all "non-for-profits" wanted to help and no money was made. Well after 6 years in this community I have learned a hell of a lot.
But having met many people over the years who have worked within many organizations they two have been uneducated about the difference and the missions of many. And many may still be. However, because someone may work for Autism Speaks, maybe not a higher up, may not truly understand what is going on. Also, that someone may also be the someone who can help improve the life of your child or children.
When I present to many parents and organization I always focus on Autism One and what it mission represents. Many times I have to defend the biomedical approach, Jenny McCarthy and the AOne mission. I do it respectfully and I will continue to promote the mission.
But I tell parents to keep their eyes and ears open, don't listen to everything that you hear. Because if you here that AOne is a "crazy" organization and you may not put your child in the hands of someone that supports this group...that someone may be the person who could have made all the difference in your and your child's world.

Yours in Health,

David