My wife and I are privileged to be grandparents now.
Both of our grandsons appear to be healthy, but we know that every parent nowadays worries about the health of their children.
As a pastor I have several friends who have autistic children. In fact, two families on my staff have autistic children. I know their stress and strain is much greater than normal.
Since April is autism awareness month, I think we all should become more aware of what autism is and how to help families that are facing this challenge.
I searched online and learned in the United States, 1 in 68 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
Boys are 4.5 times more likely than girls to be identified with ASD.
Signs of autism often start between 12 and 18 months of age. Sometimes a child will appear to be developing normally until the second year of life, and then the onset of autism is evident.
Since I know some parents who have refused to give vaccinations to their children, I was very interested to learn that extensive research over the past 20 years has shown there is no link between vaccinations and ASD.
I found the above information online at www.magellanhealthinsights.com.
I am so grateful for the friendships and support that churches bring to our lives. We are a community and we do not have to face these challenges alone.
I am pleased that on Sunday, April 8, we will have Ron Sandison be our guest speaker in both of our services, 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m..
Ron is a young married man who has autism. He has an amazing story to tell.
He has published a book called “A Parent’s Guide to Autism: Practical Advice. Biblical Wisdom.” He has spoken all over the country, bringing hope and help to families facing the challenge of autism.
I invite you to join us as we learn how to support each other. For more information go to www.clarkstoncommunity.com.
The Rev. Greg Henneman is pastor of Clarkston Community Church