LaurenWelle.com

Michael Savage, a radio talk show host, made a fool of himself on air last week, claiming that autism is a fraud. He stated that in “99 percent of the cases, it’s a brat who hasn’t been told to cut the act out”. Is this man insane? It has taken me a few days to gather myself and write this article because I was so overwhelmed with anger.

Autism is a neuro-developmental medical condition that effects many. Some characteristics of autistm include language difficulties, self destructive and repetitive behaviors and sensory difficulties. I have been teaching preschool special education for four years now and I have already begun to see the numbers of children who display characteristics of autism increase. I am a strong advocate of early intervention and believe with all of my heart that these children need this program to learn coping strategies, communication and social skills.

Savage also stated that autism is due to a lack of parental discipline. It pains me to even type this. There has never been a moment in my teaching career that I have felt that these children are “brats” who have not been taught how to “act” appropriately. Never once have I felt as if it was the parents fault. Some of the best parents that I have ever met have been those of autistic children. Parenting an autistic child is an extremely challenging job. Many of you have spent sleepless nights researching autism, specialists who can help your child, resources in the area and parenting techniques. Some of you have even sold your house or drastically cut back on daily expenses in order to help your child. I am consistently amazed by your love, patience and determination. You have taught me so much and it is my hope that one day I will be just as an incredible parent as you are.

Many lashed out after Savage’s show aired. In fact, several Mississippi based talk radio shows owned by Telesouth Communications dropped his program. His remarks are being talked about and bashed in blogs, newspaper articles and talk shows. Savage came back to say that “too many people are being misdiagnosed and that the real cases need our sympathy and support”. It is possible that there are cases of misdiagnoses but he cannot take back the blame that he has placed on parents. His remarks were crude and out of line.  All of the children I have taught who have an eligibility of autism are autistic and have greatly benefited from early intervention.

I hope that all of you who have an autistic child feel supported and respected by the community and are benefiting from the available resources. You have made a difference in the autism community and more importantly in your child’s life.