October 31, 2018

Dear Senators, Governors, and House Representatives:

 About 1 in 59 children have been identified as having some form of autism.  Meaning about 1 in 6 children in the United States have had a developmental disability in 2006-2008, ranging from mild disabilities to serious speech and developmental impairments.  With that being said this would mean around 200,000 cases of autism a year are being diagnosed in the United States alone.  This ranging between the ages of three to sixty years old.  While treatment can help there is no cure for this disorder.   Eastern North Carolina is home to hundreds of cases of autism.  While the resources are out there to assist with the needs of those suffering from autism you will find that Eastern North Carolina is lacking.  As parents, friends, and members of the communities in Eastern North Carolina that have or know these children and young adults with this disorder we are struggling for the help we need.  To some traveling hours or even miles from home to get to the help they need, is sometimes just not an option that we can take.  Eastern North Carolina has some options available, but these involve months or even years of waiting to get off a list and into a place for help.  Studies have shown that with the right therapy those dealing with autism can function better sometimes even minimize their affected or lacking skills.  Being a parent of a diagnosed child on the Autism Spectrum I have struggled first hand trying to help my son get the things he needs.  To watch a child struggle daily and not be able to function in a public-school setting is heartbreaking.  Turning every place, you can for help and returning with a “I’m sorry we are maxed and cannot assist you at this time” to “We will place you on our waiting list, we want to inform you our list is at a time frame of over a year to receive the help.” As parents, friends and community members close to this we are advocating to you to see the need for more.  With more those struggling can open a whole new world of opportunity.  More can give a whole new meaning to this disorder.   The more we push and research the more we can learn and grow together.  More is what Eastern North Carolina needs and with your support we can receive the more that we so desperately need.  You will find a list of signatures supporting this need attached.

Sincerely,

Brittany Morris Sinkler

Autism Advocate