Wednesday, April 2 is Autism Awareness Day. My youngest is diagnosed as autistic. Last Saturday he turned 12 years old. We celebrated the entire Spring Break with more than a few trips to eat, shop, and just have fun. We have a great time whenever we are together. Some times may be more enjoyable than others but I do all that I can to enjoy him. He has no idea that he is autistic. It's very possible that he wouldn't care if he did know. I do know he means the world to me just as his normal, healthy sister does. My world revolves around this condition caused autism. That's what makes it more amazing how much it affects the world.

Did you know that 25,000 children will be diagnosed with autism during this calendar year?

Did you know that there is no blood test, scan or image that can detect autism?

Did you know that scientific research for autism is just now in its infancy stages?

Did you know that 1 in every 150 children in this country displays autistic symptoms?

Did you know that number goes to 1 in every 94 boys?

Did you know that now totals 1.5 million children for whom therapies are not covered by most insurance?

Did you know the lifetime cost of caring for one child with autism ranges from $3.5 to $5 million dollars?

My autism awareness bracelet arrived this week. It is much like the "livestrong" bracelets made famous by Lance Armstrong for cancer. It may not seem like much but it is something that I can do for my son and myself. We are all "fearfully and wonderfully made." That includes those that are odd or out of place. The next time you see someone odd or disabled try being patient. God loves them as much as He does the rest.

Bro. Trey