Members of the Kansas Governor’s Commission on Autism delivered homemade candy today to Kansas Legislators to draw attention to the Governor’s declaration of April being Autism Awareness month.
Commission Chairman Jeanie Zortman said the woman who made the candy has a grandchild with Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD.
“We wanted to especially thank those legislators who have worked alongside the parents, caregivers, and teachers of ASD children for their support and encouragement and helping us raise awareness about ASD,” Zortman said. “And we want to remind them of several autism-related bills that are before them and especially ask for their support of Senate Bill 12, Kate’s Law.”
Senate Bill 12 would require health insurance companies to include ASD in their coverage.
Rep. Pat George (R-Dodge City) has been a strong supporter of ASD-related legislation and has introduced several bills.
“In the last ten years there has been an explosion of Kansas families with children diagnosed with ASD. Many are without the resources or knowledge of how they can help their children,” Rep. George said. “The Kansas Legislature must work to find ways to assist these families and their children so they might, like every Kansas child, realize their true potential and gain the independence they deserve.”
Rep. Melody McCray-Miller (D-Wichita) served on the Kansas Autism Task Force for two years and was recently appointed to the commission by Governor Kathleen Sebelius (D-Kansas)
“The State of Kansas has done some very positive things in terms of strengthening its approach to the escalating number of autistic children in the state. However, there is so much more we can do. I look forward to advancing our agenda as a member of the commission,” Rep. McCray-Miller said.
Zortman, whose daughter, Mikela, was diagnosed with autism, said there are a number of events and programs planned around the state during Autism Awareness month. She encouraged every Kansan to learn more about ASD and what they can do to make a difference in an autistic child’s life.
“Studies have shown early intervention and education is key. Parents need to be the leaders of their children’s development and education. Be aware of the milestones your child should be achieving. Talk with her doctors about things that don’t seem right in her development,” Zortman said.
Commission members Lee Stickle of Shawnee and Steve Stein of Dodge City and father of an autistic child also met with legislators today. For more information about the events and programs planned during Autism Awareness month, send an e-mail to autismswkansas@yahoo.com.
