On Monday, April 2, the USS YORKTOWN will join other iconic landmarks around the world to “light it up blue” in support of autism awareness. April 2 was designated as World Autism Awareness Day by the United Nations General Assembly in 1997.
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. According to Autism Speaks, an international autism science and advocacy organization, a new case of autism is diagnosed every 15 minutes – making it the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the U.S. In fact, more children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes and cancer combined.
“Patriots Point is proud to support this important initiative, which shines light a disability that affects 70 million people around the world and 1 of every 88 children in the United States,” said Executive Director Mac Burdette. “Although there is no medical detection or cure for autism, early diagnosis and intervention can improve outcomes. We’re glad to do our part to help raise awareness.”
