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Support the Aspergers Society of Ontario At 9 years old, "Joey" had already had enough of the isolation, bullying, and feelings of worthlessness. He truly believed his family would be better off without him, so he asked his mom to kill him because he didn’t know how to do it himself...  As tragic as it is, Joey's story is all too real and common for people struggling with Asperger Syndrome. Asperger Syndrome (AS) is an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) that inhibits a person’s ability to function in society. While individuals with AS may exhibit a range of symptoms to different degrees, a common characteristic is a significant impairment in social interaction. While medical science has yet to determine a cause for ASD, it affects some 75,000 persons living in Ontario. Although children and adults with AS have average to above average intelligence, they find it difficult to function well in school, make friends or find stable employment. Like Joey, they battle anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, bullying and social isolation. Without diagnosis, treatment, support and intervention, an AS individual can be marginalized and withdraw from society -- they face higher rates of unemployment, drug abuse and suicide, often at a very young age. Yet, AS individuals can flourish! Focused intervention, particularly in childhood, can help them achieve the life they want. Some individuals have become leaders in their chosen fields and even Nobel Prize winners! Although recognized as a bright boy by his teacher, "Ben" had trouble fitting in with his kindergarten class. He never played with others during recess - instead he paced alone in circles around the school yard. Through the intervention of the ASO, "Ben" was diagnosed with AS by Grade 1. The ASO has worked with "Ben", his family and school, providing the resources, information and services to help him succeed. Today, "Ben" attends his local high school where he excels academically and continues to make progress socially. He looks forward to university and dreams of becoming an engineer.  Please take a moment to help us help those with Asperger Syndrome – click here to make a tax deductible contribution to the work of the Asperger's Society of Ontario All contributions go to our counselling and support services, information resources, and public education efforts. |